Overview

• A code of practice introduced in February 2024 requires solar and wind operators to post 30% of estimated cleanup costs upfront, rising to 60% after 15 years.
• The June 2025 BRC-Canada analysis found no other North American or international jurisdiction demands such a large initial security without factoring in material salvage values.
• Jorden Dye of BRC-Canada warns that elevated upfront costs may drive multinational developers to shift capital to regions with lower entry barriers.
• Additional regulations, including buffer zones around turbines and an “agriculture-first” land-use policy, have added to project approval uncertainties.
• Renewable energy cleanup rules contrast sharply with oil and gas requirements, which demand about 1% in upfront securities and rely on the Orphan Well Association for liability management.