What is decommissioning a solar project?

Decommissioning refers to removal of equipment and restoration of the site. Unlike some other forms of development, a decommissioned solar project site can be repurposed for other uses, such as agricultural production. Often solar project permits define how a solar project is to be decommissioned.

Can a solar project be decommissioned?

Often solar project permits define how a solar project is to be decommissioned. For an industry- suggested policy framework for decommissioning, including plan submittal, requirements, and financial security, please visit Renewable Energy Facility Decommissioning: Industry Recommendations. 1 IEA and IRENA. 2016.

What happens if a solar project ends a performance period?

UNDERSTANDING SOLAR PROJECT END-OF-LIFE OPTIONS When solar projects reach the end of their expected performance period, there are several management options. They include extending the performance period through reuse, refurbishment, or repowering of the facility or fully discontinuing operations and decommissioning the project.

Will local communities be left to pay for a solar project?

One of the objections to utility-scale solar power that I hear most often is that local communities will be left to cover the costs of cleanup at the end of a project’s life.

Should local governments plan ahead for solar decommissioning?

It is pru-dent for local governments to plan ahead for solar decommissioning and create ordinances that spell out expectations and obligations. This ensures that financial responsibility for decommissioning falls to the project owner and not the county and land- owners.

How much do wind and solar projects cost?

Wind and solar projects paid $2.0 billion annually in state and local taxes and landowner lease payments. Renewable energy project developers prioritize being good neighbors and long-term partners with host communities.