Bill > S2569

This bill establishes a comprehensive statewide plan for the environmentally responsible management of end-of-life solar photovoltaic panels and energy storage system batteries, with a specific focus on lithium-ion batteries. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection will develop this plan in consultation with the Department of Energy Resources and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center, and in collaboration with a diverse stakeholder group including representatives from the solar industry, local governments, solid waste industry, environmentalists, and recyclers. The plan will comprehensively address potential environmental hazards (such as fire risks), reuse and recycling strategies, current and projected volume of solar panels and batteries, infrastructure needs, emerging technologies, potential stewardship programs, implementation costs, and other relevant decommissioning considerations. The department is required to submit the initial plan to legislative committees by December 1, 2026, and must update the plan every 10 years or more frequently as determined by the commissioner. Additionally, the department will be required to publicly post the plan and any subsequent revisions on its website, ensuring transparency and accessibility of the comprehensive solar and battery management strategy.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2569