The bill, S.B. No. 2659, introduces Chapter 376 to the Health and Safety Code, focusing on the recycling of renewable energy components, specifically from wind turbines, solar energy devices, and battery energy storage systems. It establishes definitions, applicability, and reporting requirements for recycling facilities that process these components. Owners of such facilities must submit annual reports to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) detailing the components accepted for recycling, timelines for recycling, and cost estimates prepared by licensed engineers. Additionally, they are required to provide financial assurance equal to 125% of the estimated recycling costs.

The bill also authorizes the TCEQ to impose administrative penalties on recycling facility operators who fail to comply with the new regulations, with penalties not exceeding $500 per day for each violation. Furthermore, it amends existing sections of the Water Code to include the new chapter on renewable energy component recycling under the commission's jurisdiction. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Water Code 5.013, Water Code 7.052 (Water Code 7, Water Code 5)