The proposed bill introduces new requirements for electric public utilities in New Mexico, focusing on distribution system planning, beneficial electrification, and the establishment of a virtual power plant program. It mandates that utilities conduct advanced planning to ensure timely customer energization and upgrade their distribution systems to comply with air quality and decarbonization standards. Utilities are required to file detailed distribution system plans with the Public Regulation Commission (PRC) every three years and develop plans for beneficial electrification that transition from non-electric fuel sources to high-efficiency electric sources, including specific targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions and provisions for low-income households.

Additionally, the bill outlines the framework for virtual power plant programs, requiring utilities to file applications and meet performance targets set by the PRC. It emphasizes equitable participation, allowing both third-party and utility aggregators to operate without competitive advantages based on customer data access. The bill also mandates that individual energy storage projects with a capacity of one megawatt or higher comply with the Public Works Minimum Wage Act and requires distributed energy resource aggregators to file affidavits confirming compliance. Utilities can recover reasonable costs associated with these programs, including performance payments to participants, while ensuring transparency and stakeholder engagement throughout the process.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 62-17-4