Bill > AB864

This bill addresses the management of solar photovoltaic modules as hazardous waste in California. Specifically, it establishes that solar photovoltaic modules intended for recycling and that cannot be resold, reused, or refurbished will be designated as universal waste only until the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) develops alternative management standards. Modules that can be resold, reused, or refurbished will be classified as surplus material. The bill requires DTSC to initiate a rulemaking process to develop alternative management standards that facilitate greater material recovery and to adopt federal regulations that provide a transfer-based exclusion for solar photovoltaic modules from hazardous waste classification. The goal is to create a more streamlined and environmentally responsible approach to handling end-of-life solar panels, making it easier to recycle these modules while ensuring proper environmental safeguards. By clarifying the regulatory status of solar photovoltaic modules and creating a pathway for their responsible recycling, the bill aims to support the growing solar energy industry and promote sustainable waste management practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB864