There are typically two things that can happen when a renewable energy project reaches the end of its contracted life. One is repowering, where certain parts of equipment or the structures themselves are replaced with upgraded equipment. The other is decommissioning, which involves fully removing the panels or turbines, foundations, structures, fencing, and other associated equipment. This also involves restoration of the site and disturbed areas, which may include grading and reseeding. This process applies to both wind and solar energy projects. For more information on the process for solar, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory recently published a study that details the options and costs associated with the end-of-life of solar facilities.
Is it common for communities to require developers submit a decommissioning plan for approval at the time of site plan approval. These plans can include an outline of the life of the project, the estimated costs for decommissioning, and details of the planned procedures for removing the equipment and restoring the site. It is also common that communities utilize financial mechanisms, such as financial guarantees or surety bonds, to ensure that the project is properly decommissioned.