Decommissioning

Most land‑leasing agreements for large-scale solar projects run 20–30 years, often with an optional 10‑year extension. When the contract ends, two outcomes are possible, repowering or decommissioning.  Repowering means replacing solar panels while reusing existing infrastructure such as racking and cabling. More information on the end-of-life options in the Center for Rural Affairs Decommissioning Solar Energy Systems Resource Guide.

Because most solar facilities are still within their operating life, large-scale decommissioning is only beginning to occur in the United States.  However, many components can be reused or recycled. Aluminum frames, wiring, and clean glass can be easily recycled. The US Environmental Protection Agency has information about Solar Panel Recycling. The Department of Natural Resources has a guidance document about Managing Used Solar Panels and Components.

Although Wisconsin law does not explicitly name responsible parties for solar projects, responsibility generally falls to the developer or site operator.  For wind energy systems, PSC 128.19(3)(b) allows local governments to require bonds, escrow accounts, or letters of credit to ensure decommissioning funds are available. Communities often apply the same approach to solar projects. Town of Lyndon Decommissioning Plan includes detailed decommissioning steps and financial assurances.