In this interview of Eye on the Issues, Executive Director of the Council to Modernize Governance Curtis Schube co-authored of an innovative report by the National Center for Energy Analytics. His research delves into a critical yet often ignored issue: What occurs when wind and solar installations come to the end of their operational life—and who covers the costs?

Curtis reveals through an examination of financial security mandates for dismantling renewable energy projects across different states, highlighting a sharp disparity between rules for conventional energy sectors and those for renewables. In most states, oil and gas authorities enforce strong, compulsory financial guarantees to make sure sites are properly restored, but the renewable industry falls short—receiving failing marks in over half of the evaluated states. Even Wyoming, with its substantial renewable growth, earned an F rating.

The host and guest discuss the reasons for these discrepancies, the dangers of abandoned renewable facilities, and how inadequate initial financial safeguards might end up with taxpayers footing the bill.

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