Decommissioning costs for renewable energy projects took center stage at the St. Croix County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 18, 2025, as officials grappled with the financial implications of dismantling aging solar installations. A key discussion highlighted the staggering potential costs, with estimates from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory indicating that decommissioning ground-mounted solar systems could reach $368,000 per megawatt.

With plans for phases one and two of local solar projects combined, the projected total decommissioning cost could soar to approximately $239 million, based on figures from February 2021. This raises significant concerns about the long-term financial responsibilities that may fall on the county and its residents.

Supervisors expressed apprehension about the future financial burden, questioning how these costs might evolve over the next 25 to 30 years. While the Public Service Commission (PSC) has outlined a decommissioning plan, the board emphasized the need for clarity and assurance regarding the long-term fiscal impact of these renewable energy initiatives.

As the county moves forward with its renewable energy goals, the discussion underscored the importance of planning for the eventual decommissioning of solar projects, ensuring that financial strategies are in place to manage these substantial costs effectively. The board's deliberations signal a critical step in balancing the benefits of renewable energy with the realities of future financial obligations.