Solar panels
One portion of the bill created Chapter 70A.510.010 RCW (Photovoltaic Module Stewardship and Takeback Program), which requires manufacturers of solar panels, also known as photovoltaic or "PV" modules, to provide the public a convenient and environmentally sound way to recycle all modules purchased after July 1, 2017.
Comment on a legislative proposal to delay implementation of solar panel law
We invite you to review and comment on Ecology’s legislative proposal to delay the implementation of Washington’s solar panel stewardship law, Chapter 70A.510 RCW. The state’s clean energy transition is facing a setback if a provision in the law goes into effect on July 1, 2025.
Rather than complying with the law creating a takeback program, some manufacturers have chosen to not sell solar panels in Washington. If the law is unchanged, it would disrupt the supply and cost of panels available for sale in Washington.
We are requesting a delay in the effective dates of the law. This will enable the industry to legally continue operating in the state while solutions are being developed. A delay will also allow for the creation of a facilitated advisory committee to identify problems with the law and develop recommendations to fix them.
The comment period will be open from Sept. 18, 2024 – Oct. 02, 2024 11:59 p.m.
- View the legislative proposal.
- View a one-page fact sheet about the proposal.
- Use our online comment form.
Please visit our 2025 legislative priorities webpage for more information. Questions about this proposal can be directed to:
Julie Robertson
Legislative coordinator, Solid Waste Management program
julie.robertson@ecy.wa.gov
360-763-2728
Who is considered a manufacturer of a PV module?
Manufacturers are required to finance the takeback and recycling system at no cost to the owner of the PV module. Under the law, the "manufacturer" of a PV module covered by law, sold in or into Washington includes any entity that:
- Has legal ownership of the brand name or co-brand of PV module.
- Imports a PV module branded by a manufacturer that has no physical presence in the United States.
- Sells at retail a PV module acquired from an importer and chooses to take legal responsibility in place of the importer as the manufacturer of that product.
- Chooses to take legal responsibility on behalf of a manufacturer as defined in the previous bullets.
A product stewardship organization may act on behalf of a manufacturer or group of manufacturers to operate and implement the stewardship program.
What is Ecology's role?
We were directed to develop guidance for creating a stewardship plan for a PV module collection and recycling program (Chapter 70A.510.010 RCW). Our role is to ensure that the takeback plan offers a convenient collection system, and that the takeback and recycling of PV modules is done in a safe and environmentally sound manner.
What types of PV modules are covered by the program?
- PV modules installed on, connected to, or integral with buildings.
- PV modules used in freestanding off-grid power generation systems, such as water pumping stations, electric vehicle charging stations, solar fencing, solar-powered signs, and solar-powered street lights.
- PV module kits.
- PV modules connected to the grid or utility service.
Resources
- Manufacturer plan guidance for the PV module stewardship program.
- Conditional Exclusion of Electronic Wastes for management options for solar panels.
Contact information
Brett Rude
brett.rude@ecy.wa.gov
564-669-9349