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SB 349

An Act amending Title 27 (Environmental Resources) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in environmental protection, providing for decommissioning of solar energy facilities.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Camera Bartolotta and 10 co-sponsors

SB 349 establishes mandatory decommissioning and land restoration standards for Pennsylvania solar energy facilities, requiring removal of equipment and environmental remediation at end-of-life.

Re-referred to Appropriations
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 349

Legislative bill overview

SB 349 amends Pennsylvania's environmental law to establish requirements for decommissioning solar energy facilities at the end of their operational life. The bill creates standards for site remediation, equipment removal, and restoration of land used for solar installations. This addresses the growing concern that aging solar farms will require proper cleanup and land restoration protocols.

Why is this important

As Pennsylvania expands solar energy development, hundreds of facilities will eventually reach end-of-life and require removal. Without clear decommissioning standards, property owners and communities could face abandoned infrastructure, environmental contamination, or costly cleanup responsibilities. The bill provides predictability for both solar developers and landowners about obligations and timelines.

Potential points of contention

  • Developer costs vs. renewable energy expansion: Strict decommissioning requirements increase project costs, which supporters of solar development argue could slow Pennsylvania's clean energy transition and competitiveness
  • Financial assurance mechanisms: Unclear whether the bill requires escrow funds, surety bonds, or other financial guarantees to ensure companies can actually pay for cleanup, especially if they become insolvent
  • Agricultural land restoration standards: Dispute over what constitutes adequate soil restoration and whether farmland can be reliably returned to productive agricultural use after solar installation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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