A comprehensive pre-removal assessment must evaluate the size, type, location, condition of the energy system, and the desired level of removal to ensure effective planning. This document is intended to equip local governments with the knowledge for decommissioning renewable energy projects such as, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, including a discussion on other options at the end of a renewable project's useful life, including repowering and recycling. This chapter. When solar projects reach the end of their expected performance period, there are several management options. This typically occurs after 20-25 years when panels begin to degrade and produce less electricity. Wind and solar projects are often located in rural areas and can provide numerous benefits to nearby communities, including lease payments to landowners, tax revenue to fund infrastructure and servic are built in a way that works best for. Since wind, solar, and storage projects will operate for 25 years or more, developers recognize and understand the need to address concerns about what happens to wind turbines, solar panels, or batteries once they reach the end of their useful life. With an increasing number of states.
