Political Scene
The political scene for clean energy development in New Mexico is quite positive at present. The Richardson Administration has been very supportive, there is strong support for wind power in Eastern Plains communities. There is very strong and documented support generally among residents in New Mexico for clean energy (see below). Many legislators, commissioners, and other state officials are also support of clean energy developments. Finally, some utilities and co-ops have become quite supportive.
It should be kept in mind though, that: New Mexico receives enormous revenues from fossil fuel extraction; the state's largest utilities are investor owned; and New Mexico rural electric cooperatives buy most of their power from out-of-state. All of these are factors which can lead to political impediments to clean energy development. New Mexico also has a small population and is a relatively poor state (despite the enormous fossil fuel revenues), which presents economic obstacles.
Public Support
Business Community Support
Richardson Administration
- 2004 North American Energy Summit - Governor Designates New Mexico the "Clean Energy State"
- 2004 Legislative Session: Governor Richardson's Remarks on Energy in his State of the State Address
- 2003: Governor Backs Renewable Energy Standard
Legislative Support
