Community Solar Now Available in New Mexico, Bringing Savings of Up to 28% to Residents and Businesses

The sun has always been a generous neighbor in New Mexico, and now, it's helping power homes and businesses in a bigger, more meaningful way.

New Mexico's community solar program, passed by the state legislature and signed into law in 2021, is officially live after years of planning between utilities, solar developers, and local advocates. Residents and businesses across the state can tap into the power of solar energy without installing rooftop panels or switching utility providers.

In addition to reducing energy bills, the program is expected to deliver major economic benefits to New Mexico. A University of New Mexico study found that community solar could create more than 3,700 jobs and $517 million in economic impact statewide within its first five years.

At the heart of community solar is a simple concept: customers subscribe to a portion of a local solar farm. That solar farm sends clean energy to the grid, and in return, subscribers receive solar credits on their utility bills resulting in guaranteed savings each month.

Solstice, a nationally recognized community solar provider with over 18,000 active subscribers across the U.S., has officially opened enrollment for solar projects across New Mexico. Solstice is offering households and businesses the chance to save up to 28% on their electricity costs while supporting locally-generated clean energy.

"Prosperity Works cares deeply about sustainability and equity in our state. We're proud supporters of community solar in New Mexicoand are excited to partner with Solstice to help households get connected. It's an easy, no-hassle way to save on electricity bills while supporting clean power right here in our own backyard. We're thrilled to open online enrollment—because when we invest in our communities, everyone wins," said Dr. Ann Lyn Hall, Chief Executive Officer of Prosperity Works.

Community solar is simple: you can sign up online in a few minutes. Once enrolled, you're connected to a nearby solar farm and, once your solar farm turns on, you will begin receiving discounted solar credits on your monthly electric bills with no equipment to install and no panels to purchase. You do not need to own your property to participate.

To make sure these savings reach the people who need them most, New Mexico requires that at least 30% of each community solar project's capacity be reserved for income-qualified households. Households that qualify via income will receive up to a 28% discount on their solar credits each month. To support local businesses, about half of each project is reserved for commercial subscribers, who can earn a 10% discount. Solstice is currently enrolling Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) electric customers, and will open up spots for customers of Xcel Energy (SPS) and El Paso Electric (EPE) in the coming weeks.

To check if you qualify and reserve your spot, visit https://solstice.us/newmexico. To learn more about New Mexico's Community Solar Program, visit https://csnewmexico.com.

Solstice | https://solstice.us