Abandonment.
If after a solar energy system becomes operational it ceases to perform its originally intended function for more than six continuous months (or for 12 of any 18 months), the solar energy system is deemed abandoned. The property owner and operator (if different from the owner) shall remove the collectors, plates, piping, mounts and associated equipment and facilities by no later than 180 days after the solar energy system is deemed abandoned. Upon request of the owner or operator, the Planning Board shall hold a public hearing and determine whether to extend the time limit before the system is deemed abandoned. Upon a finding that the applicant could not make the system function as intended for the required duration because of circumstances beyond the applicant's control (such as supply chain issues), the Planning Board may extend the time limit and impose conditions as it deems appropriate. An application for such extension must be made by no later than 15 days before the solar energy system would be deemed abandoned pursuant to the first sentence of this subsection.

See § 270-219.1: Solar energy systems for complete, detailed information.