PNM Resources Secures Approval for Solar and Battery Storage Expansion in New Mexico
- PNM Resources' 2028 Resource Application adds 450 MW of solar and battery storage capacity by 2028.
- The plan includes a 167 MW Purchase Power Agreement and two 150 MW battery storage facilities.
- PNM Resources aims to enhance clean energy solutions and support community needs, particularly in education districts.
PNM Resources Advances Solar and Battery Storage Initiatives in New Mexico
In a significant step towards sustainable energy, the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC) recently approves PNM Resources' 2028 Resource Application. This approval includes a comprehensive plan that will add 450 megawatts (MW) of new solar and battery storage capacity by 2028, in alignment with New Mexico's Energy Transition Act, which mandates zero-carbon energy solutions. This initiative not only underscores PNM’s commitment to renewable energy but also represents a strategic response to growing demands for sustainable power sources in the region.
The approved plan features several key components designed to enhance PNM's energy portfolio. Among the highlights is the extension of a Purchase Power Agreement (PPA) for 167 MW, which will remain active until 2039. Additionally, it encompasses the development of two standalone battery storage facilities, each with a capacity of 150 MW, facilitated through Energy Storage Agreements (ESAs). A new solar and battery storage facility, combining 100 MW of solar and 50 MW of battery storage, is also set to be established within the Central Consolidated School District, representing a substantial investment of $252 million between 2026 and 2028.
Support for this initiative is widespread, with endorsements from various stakeholders, including the Utility Division Staff of the NMPRC and organizations such as the Coalition for Clean Affordable Energy and New Energy Economy. This collaborative backing highlights the importance of PNM's efforts in promoting clean energy solutions, improving energy reliability, and addressing community needs, particularly in educational districts like Central Consolidated. As PNM Resources prepares to implement this ambitious plan, it positions itself as a key player in New Mexico's transition to a sustainable energy future.
In addition to the new energy initiatives, PNM Resources continues to strengthen its presence in the region. TXNM Energy, PNM's parent company based in Albuquerque, serves over 800,000 homes and businesses across Texas and New Mexico through its regulated utilities. The company's commitment to renewable energy not only aligns with regulatory demands but also reflects a growing trend among utilities to invest in green technologies and infrastructure.
As the energy landscape evolves, PNM Resources stands at the forefront of this transformation, dedicated to fostering a cleaner, more reliable energy system that benefits both the environment and local communities. For more information on their initiatives and resources, visit TXNM Energy's investor webpage.
