Law Passes Requiring Disposal Plans for Used Solar Panels

2026-05-29

A bill to promote the reuse of solar panels was passed and enacted at a House of Councillors plenary session on the 29th. It requires large solar power operators to submit plans when disposing of panels. The government will accelerate efforts to build systems for collection and recycling in preparation for a projected surge in future disposal.

Submit at least 30 days before disposal

Power generators must submit to the government a plan detailing the weight of the panels, disposal method and timing, among other information, at least 30 days before disposal. If the government determines that recycling efforts do not meet the standards, it can recommend or order changes to the plan. Fines will be imposed for failure to submit, violation of an order, or failure to recycle.

Phase in from large operators

For now, the system will apply to large operators that generate large amounts of waste, and will be expanded gradually to small and medium-sized operators. Details such as the scale of operators covered will be worked out later.

Processing systems to be expanded nationwide

The measure also includes a framework to allow recycling businesses to operate over a wider area. Under the current system, permits based on the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Law were required for each prefecture, but businesses certified by the national government will be able to operate facilities needed for recycling without obtaining such permits.

According to the Environment Ministry, the amount of solar panel waste is expected to rise sharply from the latter half of the 2030s and could reach about 500,000 tons a year at its peak. This could strain final disposal sites and disrupt waste processing as a whole.

At present, the system and business environment remain insufficiently developed, with recycling costs exceeding landfill costs. Led by the Environment Ministry, the government will move to ease cost burdens and support technological development.

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