Bill > A6005

This bill requires owners, producers, distributors, or manufacturers of solar and photovoltaic (PV) energy generation facilities to remove and recycle or refurbish their facilities and related equipment after the facility's use has terminated. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is granted the authority to develop rules and regulations for this process, which may include establishing a fee schedule to cover implementation costs and requirements for secure storage of toxic solar panel components that cannot be immediately recycled. The bill mandates that the DEP will periodically evaluate the availability of recycling facilities for solar and PV equipment within the state, and once these facilities are deemed widely accessible, the department will publish this finding. Violations of the bill's provisions will be treated as violations of the "Solid Waste Management Act," giving the commissioner the ability to pursue penalties. The bill represents an effort to address the growing environmental challenge of disposing of solar panel equipment at the end of its useful life, promoting responsible recycling and potential reuse of solar energy infrastructure. Unlike the original draft, this version gives the DEP more discretionary power in implementing the recycling requirements and takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A6005