Today in a 7-0 vote, the New Mexico House, Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee voted to advance HB210 Community Solar Act.
"I want New Mexico to move into the 21st century with a bang! and become the 20th state to pass Community Solar Legislation," said bill sponsor, Representative Patricia Roybal Caballero (D-13). "We will make history. With such a broad spectrum of support, and as a state that is so abundant in solar potential; it is a no-brainer. We should be capturing the renewable natural resource that we have been blessed with in New Mexico."
Over 80 advocates from New Energy Economy, businesses, and several other supporting organizations attended the hearing to support the bill. Dozens testified in favor, including representatives from the City of Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and Santa Fe County who said the bill is a key piece that will help them reach sustainability and carbon neutrality goals.
Only lobbyists from PNM and El Paso Electric voiced opposition to the legislation. After dominating the questioning for three hours, all Republican members of the committee walked out of the hearing as the vote was called for by Chairman Matthew McQueen.
Gail Evans, Legal Director for New Energy Economy spoke in strong support for the legislation, saying, "We are particularly pleased that the bill includes tribal organizations and tribal governments. The All Pueblo Council of Governors has passed a resolution in support of community solar legislation and has specifically looked at this bill and seen that it will work well for them. Clearly, this bill will open up the solar market in our state and make solar energy available to many more residents of New Mexico. That's what we're after."
Thanks go to you, our New Energy Economy advocates. Your efforts in sending letters, making phone calls, and signing petitions in support of the measure made a huge difference today!
Next, the Community Solar Act goes to House Judiciary Committee and we will let you know when it is scheduled to be heard.
Comments