Three companies are partnering to build a community solar portfolio of eight projects and 48.4 MW of capacity in New Mexico. These arrays are among the first to be built in New Mexico’s new community solar program.
A 7 MW community solar project in Tularosa, New Mexico. Pluma construction
Pluma construction of New Mexico is developing the community solar portfolio with support from ForeFront Power. Standard solar energy has acquired the projects and will own and operate them upon completion. Solstice energy technologies will handle customer subscriptions during the activities.
“Making New Mexico’s Community Solar Program a reality will greatly benefit residents across the state,” said Chris Pacheco, founder of Pluma Construction. “This is a major step forward in moving toward a clean, affordable energy future in New Mexico. It’s great to partner with Forefront Power and now Standard Solar and Solstice, who will drive operations, subscriptions and customer acquisition. Their leadership will provide me and my fellow New Mexicans with peace of mind as these projects unfold.”
The projects will be built on both public and private land, including some on land owned by the New Mexico State Land Trust. The first few projects have been completed and the rest are expected to come online over the course of the year.
“New Mexico’s community solar market is developing rapidly, and the real milestone is getting projects up and running so they can start generating energy and saving on subscribers’ monthly electric bills,” said Eric Partyka, director of business development at Standard Solar. “As a long-term owner and operator, we are grateful to partner with Pluma and ForeFront to commercially operate this portfolio. We are here for the duration and operate these locations with the discipline and reliability subscribers expect, ensuring customers see consistent bill savings and communities receive sustainable clean energy as the program continues to expand.”
The first community solar project in New Mexico was completed in October by Affordable Solar of Texas. The state passed a community solar law in 2021, but it got off to a slow start due to regulatory and utility hurdles.
News item from Standard Solar
