1. New Mexico Supreme Court upholds rules for community solar program
2. Decision allows community solar development to proceed without delay
3. Community Solar Act allows homeowners, renters, and businesses to subscribe to community solar facilities and save on utility bills
The New Mexico Supreme Court has upheld the current rules for the state’s community solar program, ruling in favor of the Public Regulation Commission (PRC) and a coalition of intervenor-appellees. This includes groups such as the Coalition for Community Solar Access and the Renewable Energy Industries Association of New Mexico. The decision paves the way for the continued rollout of the community solar program under the PRC’s existing rules.
The community solar program rules were approved in July 2022 but were quickly challenged by Xcel Energy’s regional utility operating company, Southwestern Public Service Company (SPS). The Supreme Court found that SPS’s appeal had no merit, allowing community solar development to proceed without further delay. The Community Solar Act, passed in 2021, allows homeowners, renters, and businesses to subscribe to electricity from community solar facilities connected to New Mexico’s major utility companies, including SPS.
New Mexicans participating in the program can save between 10 to 30% on their utility bills, with low-income subscribers expected to see the most significant savings. Kevin Cray, Mountain West Senior Director for CCSA, stated that the Supreme Court’s decision is significant in democratizing solar energy in New Mexico, creating a more equitable and resilient grid, and saving money for families. The program aims to expand in the future to allow more people to access its benefits.