Pennsylvania has enacted a new statewide framework governing the decommissioning of ground-mounted solar installations. Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 349, which represents a bipartisan legislative effort to establish clear guidelines for managing solar projects once they reach the end of their operational life.
The legislation designates solar developers as the primary party responsible for overseeing the decommissioning process, rather than placing that burden on property owners who host the installations. This allocation of responsibility is intended to provide clarity and predictability for all parties involved in solar energy development and deployment.
Tim Pawlenty, who leads the Solar Energy Industries Association, characterized the measure as a collaborative achievement that benefits multiple stakeholders. He noted that the law addresses energy affordability, economic considerations, and landowner protection while establishing transparent standards for developer obligations. The trade association highlighted the support from Governor Shapiro and other legislators across the political spectrum who backed the legislation.
The Solar Energy Industries Association represents approximately 1,200 member companies and serves as the national trade body for the solar and solar-plus-storage sectors. The organization has focused on advancing policies designed to support job creation, ensure competitive market conditions, and foster the expansion of affordable and dependable solar energy infrastructure.