Energy (Energy Efficiency)

House Memorial 60 (HM 60) requests New Mexico's Energy Conservation Division to form a study group to explore how buildings can become flexible grid assets through electrification. The study group, including utilities, contractors, consumer advocates, and low-income community representatives, will develop recommendations by November 2026 on programs that lower energy bills, reduce grid strain, and improve affordability. Key focus areas include financing for electric appliances, consumer protections, equitable access for underserved communities, and aligning building technologies with utility planning. The resulting recommendations could shape future energy programs affecting New Mexico residents and businesses using demand flexibility programs.

HB 254 modifies New Mexico's utility cost test to allow investor-owned electric utilities to include the value of avoided greenhouse gas emissions when determining if energy efficiency programs are cost-effective. This change directly affects investor-owned utilities by enabling them to count reduced emissions as a financial benefit in cost-benefit analyses for energy-saving programs. The bill amends definitions and procedures in the Efficient Use of Energy Act, requiring the Public Regulation Commission to consider avoided emissions when evaluating whether utility programs meet the "utility cost test" standard. It does not mandate new emissions reductions but changes how existing programs are assessed for cost-effectiveness. The bill is currently pending before the House committees.