- $17.8 million investment through solar panel and battery recycling through the 2026-27 Budget
- $13 million to establish end-of-life solar panel collection and recycling pathways
- $3 million to roll out embedded battery collection at local government facilities
- $1.8 million to support the ongoing delivery of both programs
- Cook Labor Government committed to protecting WA's environment for future generations
The Cook Labor Government is investing $17.8 million in the 2026-27 State Budget to build Western Australia's capacity to recycle solar panels and embedded batteries, protecting the State's environment while creating new industries and supporting local jobs.
Through the Cook Labor Government's Remade in WA initiative, $13 million will establish new collection, transport, and processing pathways for end-of-life solar panels from both households and solar farms.
This will reduce waste to landfill, recover valuable materials, and help protect and restore WA's environment for future generations.
The investment will also lay the foundations for a new local recycling industry by unlocking private sector investment, creating jobs, and ensuring more of the value from clean energy infrastructure is retained here in WA.
An additional $3 million will support local governments to collect embedded batteries, such as those found in eRideables and household devices, providing a safe and accessible disposal pathway for the community.
Together, these initiatives support the Cook Labor Government's plan for a low-waste, circular economy, diversifying the WA economy so that it remains the strongest in the nation and positioning the State as a renewable energy powerhouse.
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
"This investment is about protecting and restoring our environment so future generations can continue to enjoy Western Australia's unique landscapes.
"These programs will reduce waste to landfill, recover valuable materials, and improve how we manage complex waste streams like solar panels and embedded batteries.
"By strengthening our waste and recycling system, we are protecting our environment while supporting a more sustainable future for Western Australians."
As stated by Energy and Decarbonisation and Manufacturing Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"As WA moves towards becoming a global clean energy powerhouse, this investment will ensure we are prepared for the future.
"More solar panels and batteries are coming into use every day and we need systems to manage them at end-of-life, reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.
"This announcement is good for local jobs, good for local businesses and good for our environment."
