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Salem supervisors discuss solar‑farm proposals, emphasize decommissioning bonds and financial assurances
Summary
Supervisors and residents discussed a potential solar farm in the township. Supervisor Kerry Jobe said bonding and financial security for decommissioning will be a priority; Solicitor Falatovich noted developer agreements and recorded obligations can help enforce decommissioning and ownership changes.
At the Feb. 19 meeting, supervisors and residents discussed an inquiry about a potential solar farm in Salem Township. Resident Tom Ridella said property owners should be free to make money from their land; Supervisor Kerry Jobe said the Board’s primary concern is the financial cost of removing damaged or abandoned arrays and that an ordinance requiring bonding or other financial security will be discussed.
Township Solicitor Falatovich explained that developers frequently sell projects after construction, so the township must rely on recorded developer agreements and financial assurances to ensure decommissioning obligations survive transfers. He noted issues the Board will consider: when an array is considered out of service (for example, if it stops generating power for a year), requirements for forced decommissioning, and potential soil contamination reporting for damaged panels. The Board did not adopt an ordinance at the meeting but signaled policy work ahead.
