PNM Plans to Build Sunbelt Solar and Battery Storage Facility in Northwest New Mexico
PNM, the Public Service Company of New Mexico, has filed an application with the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission to build the Sunbelt Project, a new solar and battery storage facility, in the Central Consolidated School District in northwest New Mexico. The project includes a 100 megawatt solar array with 30 or 50 megawatts of battery storage, all set to come online in 2028.
The project comes after the closure of the San Juan Generating Station, which led to a loss of property tax revenue for the school district. PNM aims to fulfill the requirements set out in the Energy Transition Act by providing up to 430 megawatts of replacement resources within the district’s boundaries.
The Sunbelt Project is estimated to cost $220.4 million, with an additional $252 million for increased battery storage capacity. PNM has faced delays in previous renewable projects, but the utility ownership of the Sunbelt Project provides more certainty in its development.
Aside from the Sunbelt Project, PNM also plans to secure a long-term power purchase agreement for natural gas generation from the Valencia Power Plant and energy storage agreements for 300 megawatts. These agreements aim to help PNM transition to a carbon-free portfolio by 2040, as mandated by the Energy Transition Act.
Overall, the Sunbelt Project and other agreements represent PNM’s commitment to providing reliable and cost-effective energy resources to meet the needs of the community while also contributing to the state’s renewable energy goals.
Source
Photo credit nmpoliticalreport.com
