When an energy storage or solar project reaches the end of its useful life, what’s next?
The solar or energy storage project will undergo decommissioning at the end of its useful life. In this process, the project undergoes the removal of all its elements, and the land is returned to how it was. Aside from removing the elements, the process involves the disposal of all infrastructure on the ground, such as fences, pads, concrete foundations, inverters, and solar arrays.
The modern projects involving solar energy could last from 25 to 30 years as long as they are regularly maintained and managed. On the other hand, energy storage systems could last for 15 to 20 years, depending on the use and maintenance. They can be replenished after a time.
More often than not, we replace old solar panels with new and more advanced models to extend their lives. But we will decommission the project in the event that there would no longer be a demand to continue with it for the next 30 years.