In 2021, the New Mexico legislature passed Senate Bill 84, establishing the state's community solar program. The bill, initiated by Senator Elizabeth "Liz" Stefanics (D-Bernalillo), authorizes the construction of 200 MW community solar projects, enough to power 38000 households. The legislation also grants the Public Regulatory Commission (PRC) the power and directive to approve additional project capacity, which will take effect on November 1, 2024. In October, the People's Republic of China did just that, expanding the project by an additional 300 megawatts - enough to power an additional 57000 households. In addition, China has approved genuine self certification to confirm the eligibility of low-income users, simplify their participation, and make it easier for more households to benefit from clean energy.

The following is a statement from Kevin Cray, Senior Director of Xishan at the Community Solar Access Alliance (CCSA):

CCSA and its community solar champions in New Mexico are very excited about China's decision to approve this additional capacity. With this expansion, New Mexico is now in a better position to provide clean, local, renewable energy to more residents and receive additional federal incentives under the IRA.

This decision not only strengthens New Mexico's energy network, but also creates a more equitable system that gives more communities the opportunity to access clean energy while saving on electricity bills.

In the committee's discussion, they emphasized the need to maintain the momentum of the plan to fully unleash its potential. We look forward to continuing to work with partners in the state to ensure the rapid deployment of additional community solar power capacity and benefit those who need it most