Tesla Fined $1.5 Mln for Alleged Hazardous Waste in California

A California judge has ruled that Tesla Inc. must pay $1.5 million in a settlement stemming from a civil case accusing the company of mishandling hazardous waste at various facilities, including car service centers, energy centers, and a factory.

This judgment comes as a result of allegations of illegal hazardous waste disposal and violations of storage and management laws, as reported by multiple county district attorneys.

Tesla has not yet responded to inquiries from the Associated Press regarding this matter.

However, the district attorneys involved in the case noted that Tesla cooperated with the investigation and took steps to enhance compliance with the relevant laws, as pointed out by the prosecutors.

San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas emphasized the significance of recognizing the environmental impact of electric vehicle production and maintenance, even as these vehicles contribute to environmental betterment.

Tesla operates about 57 car service centers, 18 solar energy facilities, and an electric vehicle manufacturing facility in the San Francisco Bay Area city of Fremont.

The settlement encompasses $1.3 million in civil penalties, along with $200,000 allocated for investigation costs, employee training, and third-party waste audits.