The bill amends Title 39 of the General Laws entitled "PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS" by adding a new chapter on Solar Decommissioning Plans. This new chapter defines key terms related to the decommissioning of solar photovoltaic systems, including the physical removal of all components, site stabilization, revegetation, and proper disposal of waste in accordance with laws. It specifies the meanings of "decommissioning," "department," "ground-mounted solar system," and "office," with the department referring to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and the office to the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources.

The bill mandates that developers of ground-mounted solar systems submit a decommissioning plan, including a financial cost estimate, when applying for required permits from the local municipality. Municipalities are required to keep the plan on file without being responsible for its implementation, and they may require developers to post a performance bond to cover the cost of decommissioning. Additionally, the Department of Environmental Management, in consultation with the Office of Energy Resources, is tasked with providing model decommissioning plans and technical assistance to municipalities and developers. The bill clarifies that it does not override or modify any existing municipal ordinances related to decommissioning. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.