Montana SB160 revises laws for wind and solar facilities, requiring decommissioning bonds before construction.

Montana SB160 amends the state's alternative energy project laws to mandate that owners of wind and solar facilities submit a decommissioning bond before construction and commercial operation. Owners must submit a decommissioning plan and bond within 12 months of commercial operation. The bond amount is 125% of the initial amount calculated by the Department of Environmental Quality. Owners can appeal modifications to the decommissioning plan. The bill also outlines procedures for bond release upon ownership transfer and sets penalties for non-compliance. The act is effective January 1, 2026.

Montana SB160 revises laws for wind and solar facilities, requiring decommissioning bonds before construction.

Montana SB160 amends the state's alternative energy project laws to mandate that owners of wind and solar facilities submit a decommissioning bond before construction and commercial operation. Owners must submit a decommissioning plan and bond within 12 months of commercial operation. The bond amount is 125% of the initial amount calculated by the Department of Environmental Quality. Owners can appeal modifications to the decommissioning plan. The bill also outlines procedures for bond release upon ownership transfer and sets penalties for non-compliance. The act is effective January 1, 2026.