As California leads the nation in solar energy production, it’s also facing the challenge of responsibly managing millions of aging solar panels. With the state’s push toward clean energy, end-of-life solar management has become a critical focus — and so have the regulations governing it.
California’s Strict Solar Recycling Regulations
Under state law, solar panels are classified as Universal Waste, requiring that they be handled, transported, and processed only by permitted and certified handlers.
The California Department of Toxic Substances Control mandates that panels cannot simply be landfilled or shipped to non-certified handlers. Doing so can result in significant fines, environmental violations, and liability exposure for site owners, developers, and asset managers.
That’s why more companies are turning to certified recyclers like Comstock Metals—a trusted partner ensuring full compliance from removal to final material recovery.
Reducing Liability Through Certified Recycling
Using a certified solar recycler isn’t just a best practice—it’s a legal safeguard. Improper disposal can leave asset owners responsible for downstream contamination, especially if panels end up in non-compliant facilities or exported illegally.
Comstock Metals operates under R2v3 (Appendix A, E, and G) and RIOS certifications, the industry’s highest standards for responsible recycling. These certifications verify that:
- Every panel is tracked from pickup through processing for full traceability
- Materials are recycled into verified secondary commodities—never landfilled
- All data, documentation, and audit trails meet regulatory and ESG reporting requirements
Partnering with a certified recycler protects project owners, operators, and investors from environmental and legal risk while ensuring the materials are returned safely to the supply chain.
Learn more about Comstock Metals' Compliance standards →
California’s Growing Need for Responsible Recycling
California is currently the largest solar market in the U.S. with over 49,000 MW of installed capacity and is increasing steadily. With most panels reaching end-of-life within 10-15 years, the need for scalable, responsible recycling solutions has never been more urgent.
Comstock Metals is meeting that demand with a state-of-the-art recycling facility capable of accepting all types of solar panels—including but not limited to thin-film, crystalline silicon, and bifacial modules—all processed with zero landfill waste and complete environmental accountability.
Partner with Comstock Metals
From storm-damaged panels to full site decommissioning, Comstock Metals provides California solar owners with a turnkey, compliant, and fully documented recycling solution. Our processes ensure complete peace of mind—protecting both your project and your reputation.
Contact us today → to discuss your California solar recycling needs and ensure your next project meets the highest environmental and regulatory standards.