In 2021, the New Mexico Legislature passed Senate Bill 84, establishing the state’s community solar program. Sponsored by Senator Elizabeth “Liz” Stefanics (D-Bernalillo), the bill authorized 200 MW of community solar projects, enough to power 38,000 homes. The legislation also gave the Public Regulation Commission (PRC) the authority and direction to approve additional program capacity to be in effect by November 1, 2024. In October, the PRC did just that, expanding the program by an additional 300 MW — enough to power 57,000 more homes. In addition, the PRC approved true self-attestation for confirming the eligibility of low-income subscribers, streamlining their participation and making it easier for more households to benefit from clean energy.
Following is a statement from Kevin Cray, Mountain West senior director for the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA):
“CCSA and its community solar champions in New Mexico are thrilled with the PRC’s decision to approve this additional capacity. With this expansion, New Mexico is now in an even better position to provide more residents with access to clean, local, renewable energy and capture additional federal incentives enabled under the IRA.
“This decision not only strengthens New Mexico’s energy grid but also creates a more equitable system, giving more communities the opportunity to embrace clean energy while saving on their electricity bills.
“During the Commission’s discussion they emphasized the need to keep the program’s momentum going to reach its full potential. We look forward to continuing our work with partners in the state to ensure this additional community solar capacity is deployed quickly and benefits those who need it most.”
News item from CCSA