News & Updates

Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy Publishes Revised Solar Decommissioning Rules

Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy Publishes Revised Solar Decommissioning Rules

December 19, 2025 | Whit Cox, Regulatory Director & Blan Holman, General Counsel

On December 16, the Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy (C&E), submitted a summary report to legislative committees regarding revisions to proposed rules governing the decommissioning of solar facilities.

C&E’s revised draft rule makes several important changes to the proposed decommissioning rules in response to written and oral comments, including comments SREA provided at the public hearing on September 26.

Key changes include:

  • Revising the effective date to July 1, 2026;
  • Adding more time limits on agency review; and
  • Clarifying that salvage value is included in decommissioning cost calculations (if C&E is provided with a first priority lien on salvaged materials).

SREA appreciates the work that C&E put into the revisions to make the rule more workable and effective. You can find the report and related documents on C&E's website.

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Southern Renewable Energy Association

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Legislation

SREA advocates for policies that support renewable energy deployment and protect the industry from legislative threats. Our efforts ensure that renewable energy companies influence regional energy policies, focusing on growth, tax incentives, siting, and decommissioning requirements.

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SREA’s regulatory advocacy helps shape utility plans to integrate renewable energy, expanding clean energy access in the Southeast. By participating in state utility proceedings, SREA provides technical comments and testimony to promote clean energy adoption.

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Transmission

SREA is actively engaged in the regional planning process and collaborates with organizations across the region to push for reforms in planning, transparency and oversight with two goals in mind: strengthening the grid and integrating more renewable energy.