The bill amends Section 62-9-1 of the New Mexico Statutes to stipulate that no public utility may provide service to New Mexico customers from any public utility plant or system without first obtaining a certificate that public convenience and necessity require the service. The language regarding the construction or operation of utility plants has been deleted, and the focus is shifted to the provision of service. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a public utility does not need to secure a certificate for extensions within municipalities or districts where it has already commenced operations prior to June 13, 1941, or for extensions into territories already served by the utility.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the criteria for approving applications for energy storage systems, emphasizing their role in reducing costs, fossil fuel usage, and greenhouse gas emissions, while enhancing grid reliability and security. The commission is given the authority to approve applications without a formal hearing if no protests are filed, and it must issue a decision within specified timeframes. The bill declares an emergency, indicating the need for immediate implementation for the public peace, health, and safety.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 62-9-1