Solar Access Fund would provide grants to statewide municipalities and tribal governments to establish solar energy systems for public buildings and utilities

Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation to improve access to solar energy and enhance emergency resiliency for New Mexico’s rural and tribal communities by a bipartisan 43-22 vote.

House Bill 128 creates the Local Solar Access Fund within the New Mexico Finance Authority, which would provide grants to local government and tribal entities throughout the state for the development of solar energy systems to power public buildings and infrastructure. The program, which is supported by $20 million in this year’s state budget, would prioritize projects in rural and economically disadvantaged communities, as well as projects that would support local workforce development.. 

Grants could be used to plan and construct solar projects and battery storage to help expand the use of sustainable energy statewide, reduce energy costs, and improve electricity resiliency in rural and tribal communities that are often faced with power outages from storms and natural disasters like wildfires and blizzards. The inclusion of battery storage allows communities to equip buildings so they can remain powered during an emergency. 

“We have been working with local governments across the state who are eager to build solar and battery storage, but many lack the funding to get their projects built,” said lead sponsor House Majority Leader Reena Szczepanski (D-Santa Fe). “The Local Solar Access Fund is the missing link. This will allow our communities to save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and equip community centers, water utilities, and fire stations with resilient and stable sources of power.”

Under HB 128, New Mexico counties, municipalities, school districts, land grants, mercedes, and Indian nations, tribes, and pueblos would be eligible for these grants. Funding could be used for all stages of solar implementation, from planning to purchasing to installation and infrastructure, as well as to leverage additional federal funding for these projects. 

HB 128 is also sponsored by Senator Harold Pope (D-Albuquerque) and Rep. Patricia Roybal Caballero (D-Albuquerque). It now moves to the Senate.

Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature’s Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.