The bill amends the Rural Electric Cooperative Act and the Renewable Energy Act to expand the definition of "renewable energy resource" to include natural gas using combined cycle technology. This change is reflected in the legal language where the previous exclusion of natural gas is removed, allowing it to be classified alongside other renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal. The bill also clarifies that electric energy generated from fossil fuels or nuclear energy is not considered renewable, with the exception of natural gas using combined cycle technology.

Additionally, the bill updates the definitions related to renewable energy in both acts, ensuring consistency in terminology and regulatory standards. The inclusion of natural gas using combined cycle technology aims to promote a broader range of energy resources that can contribute to New Mexico's renewable energy goals, potentially enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability within the state's energy portfolio.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 62-15-37, 62-16-3