(Reference for a preliminary ruling– Environment– Directive 2012/19

21The Czech Republic implemented its obligations under Directive 2002/96 inter alia by enacting zákon č. 185/2001 Sb., o odpadech a o změně některých dalších zákonů (Law No185/2001 on waste and amending certain other laws; ‘the Law on waste’).

22On 30May 2012, a new Paragraph37p, establishing a mechanism for financing the costs relating to the management of waste from photovoltaic panels, was inserted in that law. Under that paragraph, the operator of a solar power plant has the obligation, by means of recycling contributions, to finance the costs relating to the management of waste from photovoltaic panels placed on the market by 1January 2013. To that end, an obligation was imposed requiring such an operator to conclude by 30June 2013 an agreement ensuring a collective financing system, in order that the financing be provided by 1January 2019. In the case of photovoltaic panels placed on the market after 1January 2013, the obligation falls on their producer.