What Happens When a Solar Project Ends?

As solar energy adoption accelerates across the country, many landowners and community members are asking: What happens when a solar project reaches the end of its life? Responsible decommissioning is just as important as building the project itself. Here's how responsible solar developers plan for the end from the very beginning, ensuring that a project will be removed and responsibly disposed of at the end of life so that the land can be put to different use.

What is Decommissioning?

Decommissioning is the process of safely dismantling and removing solar energy equipment at the end of a project lease. Our commitment is to restore the land to its original condition or better, ready for farming, grazing, or whatever comes next.

Recycling, Repurposing, and Disposal

When a solar project is decommissioned, the materials are repurposed, responsibly disposed, or recycled when feasible.

Solar Panels:
Panels are carefully detached and either sold for reuse or responsibly disposed of. If solar panels are still useable, some panels find new life in off-grid or international electrification projects. Refurbished solar panels are resold very inexpensively, making them a good choice for projects that don't require as much electricity, like recreational vehicles or solar-powered pumps.

Racking & Mounts:
The metal racking systems of solar projects, which consist of aluminum and galvanized steel, are removed and recycled. Other components like fencing, wiring, and mounts are also recycled or reused wherever possible.

Inverters & Electrical Equipment:
These are dismantled and as many parts as possible are refurbished or recycled. Some parts may require responsible disposal.

Land Restoration:
All above-ground equipment is removed, and the land is restored. Any posts that can't be fully removed are cut at a safe distance below grade. Cement foundations and access roads are taken out, and the ground is returned to its original state. Plantings incorporated into the restoration will be consistent with plans for future use and are non-invasive, compatible species.

Who is Responsible for Decommissioning?

Decommissioning costs are covered by the Project and are included in the financial planning, working with the landowner and local authorities to ensure a detailed decommissioning plan and a financial bond is in place — so funds are always available for removal, even if ownership changes in the future.

Our Promise: Responsible, Sustainable, and Secure

We take pride in planning for every stage of a solar project, including the end. Our thorough decommissioning process ensures:

• Land is restored and ready for its next use
• Materials are recycled, repurposed, or responsibly disposed of
• The community is protected — financially and environmentally

We're dedicated to providing long-lasting clean energy while ensuring every project is decommissioned responsibly – so you and the community can feel confident in both the benefits of the solar project and long-term stewardship of the land it's built on.

To learn more about how solar projects benefit your land and community – now and in the future, explore our commitment to responsible stewardship at Community Benefits | New Energy Equity.