Bill > HB1789

This bill establishes and enhances a photovoltaic module stewardship and takeback program in Washington state, with the goal of creating a convenient, safe, and environmentally sound system for recycling solar panels. The bill requires manufacturers to develop and submit stewardship plans by January 31, 2028, detailing how they will finance the collection, management, and recycling of photovoltaic modules with a target of reusing or recycling at least 85% of collected modules. Key provisions include establishing a photovoltaic module advisory committee with representatives from diverse stakeholders like tribal organizations, environmental groups, utilities, and manufacturers, who will develop recommendations for the recycling program. The bill also introduces new terms related to environmental justice, such as "overburdened communities" and "vulnerable populations," and requires consideration of equitable distribution of environmental benefits. Manufacturers who do not submit an approved stewardship plan can be fined up to $10,000 per sale, and distributors, retailers, and installers will be prohibited from selling or installing modules from manufacturers without an approved plan. The Department of Ecology will oversee the program, collect fees to cover administrative costs, and create a photovoltaic module recycling account to fund the program's implementation.