The North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved the first set of decommissioning plans for wind farms since new rule changes were approved last year. Plans for 14 wind projects were approved during the June 27 Commission meeting.
The rules approved last year strengthen requirements for future wind projects and ensure they are properly decommissioned at the end of their use. The changes were put in place to ensure that wind projects are properly taken down and cleaned up when the facility is no longer being used. As wind generation continues to expand in North Dakota and projects grow in size and scale, the costs and consequences of failed or improper decommissioning have been a concern for the Commission. The PSC has been responsible for ensuring reclamation for coal mining in the state since 1970 and incorporated that success and experience in the rule changes.
“A half-century ago, our ancestors made a commitment to ensure our coal mines would be reclaimed when the prairie became quiet again,” said Randy Christmann, Commission chairman. “These decommissioning rules demonstrate a renewed commitment by our generation to ensure that North Dakota’s beautiful landscape will be returned to its splendor when these giant wind turbines reach the end of their useful lives.”
The rules require decommissioning plans, including cost estimates, are filed with and approved by the Commission prior to operation of any new facilities and the Commission requested that existing facilities submit plans by July 1, 2018. The rules also require financial assurance for decommissioning. For projects sited after July 1, 2017, a two-phase approach will be used with an initial financial assurance provided prior to construction and financial assurance sufficient to ensure complete decommissioning required before operation. Previously sited facilities are required to provide financial assurances after the 10th year of operation.
The rule changes were approved by the PSC in early May 2017 and approved by the Administrative Rules Committee in June 2017. The rule changes took effect on July 1, 2017.
