A Smarter Approach to Solar Recycling
Instead of pushing a rushed mandate that the industry wasn’t ready for, SB 5175 gives Washington time to create a realistic, effective recycling system. It acknowledges a simple truth: If we set impossible requirements too soon, we don’t just risk a few fines — we risk manufacturers leaving Washington entirely.
And we can’t afford that.
Why the Right Approach Matters
Solar energy is booming in Washington and across the country. But as more systems are installed, we also need smart plans for what happens when panels reach the end of their life.
Early proposals for Washington’s solar recycling policies were well-intentioned but would have required manufacturers to meet complex recycling standards before the necessary infrastructure and markets were ready.
That would have driven costs up and pushed key players out of our state — exactly when we need them to stay and invest more.
SB 5175 instead allows for:
The new law sets a clear path forward, with a proper recycling plan to be developed by 2028 and implementation beginning in 2029. This timeline gives Washington the opportunity to scale up recycling technologies like advanced panel recovery and circular manufacturing. It’s a real solution — not just a rushed mandate that could have hurt our industry’s future.
The SOLARCYCLE Success Story
Recycling by the numbers
If you’re wondering whether the industry can rise to the recycling challenge, just look at what SOLARCYCLE achieved last year:
- 480,000+ solar panels recycled in 2024 alone,
- 28 million pounds of materials — including valuable glass and aluminum — kept out of landfills,
- 13.8 million kilograms of carbon emissions avoided,
- A 228% increase in recycling capacity year-over-year.
Glass Factory
Even better? SOLARCYCLE is building the world’s first solar glass factory using recycled panel material at its Circular Solar Campus in Cedartown, Georgia — a sign that truly circular solar is becoming a reality.
And the need is urgent: By 2050, as many as 3.3 billion solar panels worldwide will need responsible end-of-life management.
A Stronger, Greener Future for Washington
Passing SB 5175 proves that Washington is ready to lead — not just in clean energy deployment, but in building the infrastructure needed to sustain it. At Northwest Electric and Solar, we’re proud to be active members of WASEIA and to have supported this important legislation that lays the groundwork for a responsible, effective recycling system.
This is a major step forward in creating the supply chain Washington needs to handle broken and retiring solar panels — without driving manufacturers out of the market. It’s the kind of smart, sustainable policy that ensures clean energy continues to grow and thrive in our state.
As always, NWES is here as your trusted source for solar and renewable energy in Washington. Have questions about solar, batteries, or sustainable home upgrades? Contact us today — we’re here to help.
