New Hampshire House Bill HB1459

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/1/21
• Refer: 12/1/21
• Report Pass: 3/9/22
• Report DNP: 3/9/22
• Engrossed: 3/22/22
• Refer: 3/22/22
• Report DNP: 4/14/22

Caption

Relative to recycling solar panels.

Impact

The implementation of HB1459 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws related to environmental management and waste disposal. By requiring solar panel installers to create and implement stewardship plans, the bill not only encourages the recycling of solar panels but also aims to minimize hazardous waste and enhance the recovery of valuable materials like rare earth elements. This proactive approach addresses existing gaps in recycling infrastructure for solar panels and sets standards for future practices in this sector.

Summary

House Bill 1459 establishes a program aimed at recycling photovoltaic solar panels, incorporating a stewardship plan that installers must adhere to for effective management of end-of-life solar modules. The bill mandates that installers in New Hampshire submit a stewardship plan by a specified deadline, highlighting the importance of environmentally sound practices in the recycling process. With this program, the state aims to streamline the recycling of solar panels, ensuring they are disposed of or reused in an environmentally safe manner.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB1459 highlighted some notable points of contention. Critics raised concerns about the potential financial burden on small solar panel installers who may have difficulty meeting the requirements of the stewardship plan without adequate support or funding. Additionally, there were debates over the feasibility of the proposed timelines for compliance and the potential penalties for non-compliance, which could disproportionately affect smaller businesses in the solar energy sector. Proponents, however, argued that this legislation is crucial for advancing environmental sustainability and protecting public health.