Bill > S550

This bill requires the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to develop a comprehensive statewide plan for managing end-of-life solar photovoltaic panels and energy storage system batteries. The plan must be developed in consultation with other state agencies and a diverse stakeholder group, and will be updated every 10 years. The plan will comprehensively evaluate multiple aspects of solar panel and battery disposal, including potential environmental hazards, preferred methods of management (such as reuse, refurbishment, recycling, or disposal), current and projected volume of equipment, infrastructure needs for collection and transportation, emerging recycling technologies, potential stewardship programs, and environmental impacts of decommissioning sites. The department must consider whether these materials qualify as hazardous waste, assess the potential impact on landfill capacity, and examine financial assurance requirements for large solar projects. By July 1, 2026, the department must file a report with various legislative committees detailing the plan, including recommendations for regulations, legislation, and cost estimates. The final plan will be made publicly available on the department's website, ensuring transparency and accessibility of the comprehensive solar and battery management strategy.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S550