Bill > HB1080

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for the decommissioning of solar energy facilities in Pennsylvania, requiring owners (called "grantees") to develop detailed plans for removing solar infrastructure when a facility becomes inactive. The bill mandates that solar energy facility agreements include specific decommissioning requirements, with facilities needing to be dismantled within 18 months of ceasing electricity production. Grantees must provide financial assurance that increases incrementally over 25 years, starting at 10% of estimated decommissioning costs and ultimately reaching 100%, calculated by an independent professional engineer. The decommissioning plan must include removing equipment and foundations to at least three feet below grade, restoring the property to its original condition, and reseeding cleared areas, unless the property owner requests otherwise. Additionally, the bill requires grantees to attest to compliance with laws preventing forced labor in the manufacturing of solar equipment and preempts local regulations that might interfere with these provisions. The requirements do not apply to small solar facilities (two megawatts AC or less), customer-generated solar systems, or solar facilities on agricultural operations. The bill aims to ensure responsible development and eventual removal of solar energy infrastructure, protecting landowners and the environment.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1080