Passage of renewable energy bill puts New Mexico at forefront of carbon-free electricity

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Land of Enchantment set to join California, Hawaii and D.C. as a renewable energy leader

Environment America

SANTA FE, N.M. — A groundbreaking renewable energy bill heads to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham for her signature after the New Mexico House of Representatives passed it with a bipartisan 43-22 vote. The state Senate already approved the Energy Transition Act (SB 489) by a 32-9 margin, also with bipartisan support.

If the governor signs it as expected, New Mexico utilities will have to get at least 50 percent of their electricity from renewable energy by 2030, 80 percent by 2040, and be 100 percent carbon-free by 2045.

Rob Sargent, the senior director of Environment America’s clean energy program, issued the following statement:

“This is great news for New Mexico and it’s great news for national progress on renewable energy. We need to take bold action against climate change and we’re counting on the states to lead. By passing the Energy Transition Act, New Mexico will join the ‘A team’ of climate leaders. We look forward to working with Governor Lujan Grisham to ensure that New Mexico joins California, Hawaii and the District of Columbia with 100 percent clean electricity laws on the books.”

“Heartland states including Minnesota and Illinois and coastal states such as Washington, Massachusetts and Florida all are currently considering 100 percent bills, and can now follow New Mexico’s lead.”

“While sea levels and global temperatures are on the rise, so is the will of the American people to combat climate change as quickly and strategically as possible. Transitioning our electricity generation from fossil fuels to 100 percent renewable energy is one of the best weapons we have for that fight, and states are well-positioned to do that.”

“The bill’s sponsors, state Sens. Jacob Candelaria and Mimi Stewart and Rep. Nathan Small deserve tremendous credit for their foresight and tenacity. And, hats off to our colleague, Environment New Mexico state director Sanders Moore, and our many allies who worked tirelessly to help lawmakers succeed.”

“A rapid transition to clean, renewable energy sources is the best way to ensure that New Mexico remains the ‘Land of Enchantment’ for centuries to come.”