Upward New Mexico Articles
WHAT IT WILL TAKE TO GROW NEW MEXICO’S ECONOMY | OPINION
Growing New Mexico’s economy will require strategic investments and reforms that expand opportunities across the state. Key priorities include modernizing infrastructure such as roads, rail, energy grids, water systems, and broadband to better connect communities and support businesses. Strengthening workforce development and education systems, enhancing job training, and attracting industries that offer high-quality jobs are essential to diversifying the economy and boosting long-term growth.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB WELCOMES PROJECT JUPITER DONATION
A long-planned expansion of the Boys & Girls Club of Las Cruces is moving forward after a major donation helped push the project past a key fundraising milestone. The effort will transform a former movie theater into a new headquarters with expanded youth programming, including STEM, arts, recreation, and dedicated space for teens, allowing the organization to serve more than three times as many students each day. The investment reflects a broader commitment to community partnerships and youth development, emphasizing long-term benefits for families and the region as a whole.
GESSING: UNDERSTANDING NEW MEXICO’S DATA CENTER BOOM
New Mexico is beginning to see a shift toward economic diversification with the arrival of large-scale data centers supporting artificial intelligence, bringing significant private investment and long-term growth potential to the state. While these projects offer clear economic benefits and are preferable to losing such investment to other states, they also raise important questions about energy reliability, the role of traditional power sources, and the scale of public subsidies being offered. As demand for electricity grows, state leaders will need to reconcile economic development goals with existing energy policies and ensure that the benefits of this expansion are balanced, transparent, and broadly shared.
AI CENTER WILL BENEFIT SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO RESIDENTS
Southern New Mexico is facing a rare opportunity to reshape its economic future through a large-scale AI data center that promises long-term jobs, workforce development, and new opportunities for local families, particularly in a region with a predominantly Hispanic workforce. While questions about water, energy, and infrastructure are valid and deserve honest discussion, the narrative argues that misinformation and fear-based opposition risk undermining informed community decision-making. With proven engineering, planning, and regulatory tools already in place, the focus should remain on transparent facts, meaningful local engagement, and ensuring that residents — not outside interests or manufactured controversy — shape the future of their own communities.
TROUT REBOUNDING IN RED RIVER; ANGLERS CREDIT RESTORATION WORK, MINE CLEANUP
Trout populations in the Red River are showing strong signs of recovery, with recent surveys finding higher densities of fish than in past years. Local anglers and wildlife officials attribute the rebound to ongoing restoration efforts and cleanup of legacy mine impacts, which have improved water quality and habitat conditions, making the river more supportive of healthy trout fisheries.
BORDERPLEX DIGITAL ASSETS ANNOUNCES ONE OF NEW MEXICO’S LARGEST RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS: 1GW PROJECT GREEN IN SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO
BorderPlex Digital Assets is advancing a major renewable energy initiative in southern New Mexico aimed at supporting long-term economic growth and critical infrastructure needs. The effort will evaluate large-scale solar, wind, geothermal, and hybrid energy solutions, with plans to develop up to 1 gigawatt of new renewable generation over the next decade. Designed to strengthen reliability, affordability, and resilience, the initiative reflects a portfolio-based approach to power generation that aligns clean energy development with the region’s growing electricity demands and broader environmental and economic goals.
$60 MILLION WORKFORCE INITIATIVE STRENGTHENS ENERGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE JOBS
A major workforce investment from the state focuses on aligning education and training with high-demand sectors like energy, construction, and infrastructure. Programs like this ensure New Mexicans are prepared to fill good-paying jobs created by new projects across the state.
WASTE-TO-ENERGY PLANT PLANNED FOR OHKAY OWINGEH LAND
A groundbreaking clean-energy project is coming to Ohkay Owingeh lands with plans for a 10-megawatt waste-to-energy facility that turns local waste into reliable, carbon-reducing power and boosts regional electricity capacity. Developed in partnership with tribal leaders and the North Central Solid Waste Authority, the plant will not only help divert tons of waste from landfills and cut pollution, it will also create jobs, support local economies, and strengthen sustainable infrastructure right here in Northern New Mexico.
New Mexico at the Table: Data Centers, AI, and the Work of Building Opportunity
New Mexico is at a crossroads—one defined not by scarcity, but by possibility. Across the country, communities are competing to attract data centers, advanced computing facilities, and artificial intelligence infrastructure. These projects are reshaping local economies, strengthening national security, and creating high-quality jobs. New Mexico has every reason to be part of that future—but only if we are willing to engage fully, thoughtfully, and together. What these opportunities require most is not a single vote or a one-time decision. They require sustained participation. Communities must understand from the beginning that projects of this scale unfold over time, through multiple public processes,
AI BOOM DRIVES DEMAND FOR POWER… NEW MEXICO ASKS: WHO PAYS?
New Mexico is navigating a pivotal moment as rapid growth in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and data centers drives unprecedented demand for electricity. Leaders at Los Alamos National Laboratory and across state government are working to ensure that this growth strengthens the economy without shifting costs onto households and small businesses.
A TRANSMISSION LINE THAT PROTECTS POWER DELIVERY AND PRAIRIE CHICKENS
Modern transmission infrastructure is essential to ensuring reliable power delivery across New Mexico, especially as demand grows and generation sources diversify. Thoughtfully designed transmission projects can strengthen the grid while also protecting wildlife and sensitive landscapes. Expanding and modernizing transmission allows New Mexico to fully utilize its energy resources and deliver affordable, reliable power statewide.
Los Lunas: A Community That Planned for Growth—and Is Seeing the Results
In New Mexico, economic development conversations often stay theoretical. Communities talk about what they want, but struggle with how to get there. Los Lunas offers a different story—one rooted in planning, coordination, and a shared belief that growth can strengthen a community when it is managed intentionally. Over the past several years, Los Lunas has seen significant population growth, rising school enrollment, new housing construction, and expanding business activity. Families are moving in, businesses are investing, and infrastructure is being built to support long-term demand. This didn’t happen by accident. It reflects a clear decision by local leadership and the
Stewardship in Action: Working Lands, Working Infrastructure, and Shared Responsibility
Stewardship in New Mexico doesn’t only happen at the end of a project. In many cases, it happens during development—and continues long after construction crews have left. That part of the story is often overlooked, but it is essential to understanding how modern infrastructure can coexist with working lands, healthy ecosystems, and rural livelihoods. Across the state, transmission lines, pipelines, broadband corridors, and other linear infrastructure are built on ranchland and farmland that families intend to pass down for generations. These projects succeed not because landowners are ignored, but because they are treated as partners. Stewardship Along the Way:
CHEVRON INCREASES ITS SUPPORT FOR NEW MEXICO AGRICULTURE IN THE CLASSROOM BY 60%
Chevron is expanding its investment in education across New Mexico by significantly increasing support for Agriculture in the Classroom, strengthening hands-on STEM learning tied to agriculture. The funding helps reach students and educators statewide through interactive activities, classroom resources, and public events that connect science, technology, and food systems. The effort reflects a broader commitment to workforce development and preparing the next generation to understand agriculture’s role in sustaining communities and the state’s economy.
NEW MEXICO’S FIRST COMMUNITY SOLAR PROJECT COMES ONLINE IN VALENCIA COUNTY
New Mexico reached an important milestone with the launch of its first community solar project, expanding access to renewable energy for households and businesses that can’t install solar themselves. Community solar helps keep energy costs competitive while ensuring more people can participate in clean energy development.
PRODUCED WATER: AN OPPORTUNITY FOR BOTH LABOR AND THE LAND
Reusing produced water from oil and gas operations is presented as both a jobs opportunity and a responsible way to conserve New Mexico’s limited freshwater supplies. The author argues that instead of disposing of this water underground, the state should invest in technologies and infrastructure to treat and repurpose it for safe industrial and other non drinking uses, creating long term skilled employment in the process. Labor groups emphasize that many workers in the energy industry come from local and tribal communities and want to be part of solutions that support both economic stability and environmental stewardship, framing produced water reuse as a way to benefit workers, communities, and the land simultaneously.
OPEN AI TO BUILD MASSIVE DATA CENTER IN NEW MEXICO AS PART OF NATIONWIDE EXPANSION
OpenAI, in partnership with Oracle and other partners through its “Project Jupiter” AI infrastructure initiative, plans to build a massive AI data center campus in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, as part of a nationwide expansion of AI compute facilities. The development is expected to significantly boost AI capacity and investment in the state.
GOVERNOR MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM ANNOUNCES $1 BILLION FUSION RESEARCH CENTER IN ALBUQUERQUE
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced that Pacific Fusion will build a $1 billion fusion energy research and manufacturing campus at Mesa del Sol in Albuquerque, bringing more than 200 long-term jobs and hundreds of construction positions. The facility aims to advance commercial fusion technology and cements New Mexico’s role in clean-energy innovation, building on local scientific expertise and partnerships with national labs.
NEW MEXICO METHANE RULES CUT EMISSIONS BY HALF COMPARED TO TEXAS, OFFICIALS SAY
New Mexico officials say new satellite data shows the state’s 2021 methane regulations have cut oil-and-gas methane emissions in the Permian Basin by about half compared to neighboring Texas, even as production has more than doubled since 2020. The report, released during U.S. Climate Week, found New Mexico’s methane intensity at 1.2% versus 3.1% in Texas, with captured gas valued at $125 million plus $27 million in added tax and royalty revenue. State leaders and environmental groups argue the results demonstrate that stricter leak detection, limits on venting and flaring, and gas-capture requirements can both reduce climate pollution and strengthen the energy sector, while Texas lacks comparable rules.
GAS PRICES DOWN AGAIN ACROSS NEW MEXICO AS SUPPLY SURPLUS PERSISTS
Gas prices across New Mexico have fallen again as a surplus of fuel supply keeps costs low for drivers, with statewide averages remaining below both the national rate and recent weeks’ levels, according to data from AAA. The price declines reflect abundant supply and have left drivers paying less at the pump than earlier in the year, even as national trends see fluctuations in crude oil markets.
Building Together, for the Long Term: Respecting Tribal Autonomy While Expanding Opportunity
Across New Mexico, some of the most important opportunities ahead of us will depend on how well we work together—state, local, and tribal governments included. Respecting tribal autonomy while supporting tribal-led development is not only the right thing to do; it is essential if we want to close infrastructure gaps, improve quality of life, and create lasting opportunity in some of the most rural parts of our state. This is not about inviting communities to the table after decisions are made. It is about recognizing tribal governments as sovereign partners—leaders in development, innovation, and stewardship—who must be in the driver’s
WILL SOLAR ENERGY RISE IN SANTA FE BEFORE OPPORTUNITY SETS?
A large solar-and-battery project proposed south of Santa Fe has divided the community: nearby residents support renewable energy but oppose this site due to safety and environmental concerns, especially over battery-fire risks and proximity to neighborhoods. Supporters argue the technology is safe and well-sited, and county commissioners have approved the permit, though opponents plan a court appeal.
RELIANT VEHICLES ARE CRUCIAL TO NEW MEXICO
The op-ed contends that reliable vehicles are essential for New Mexico residents, especially given long distances between communities, limited public transit, and the need for dependable transportation for work, school, and daily life. It likely emphasizes how dependable cars and trucks support economic activity, access to services, and quality of life across the state, and urges attention to policies that ensure vehicle reliability and affordability for all New Mexicans.
OPINION: GREEN ENERGY’S EMPTY PROMISES VS NEW MEXICO’S REAL ENERGY HEROES
Larry Berhrens says that New Mexico’s shift toward renewable energy has fallen short, claiming wind and solar remain unreliable and have failed to replace lost jobs or affordable power after policies like the Energy Transition Act and the closure of the San Juan Generating Station. It contrasts this with the continued economic and energy contributions of oil and gas, portraying fossil fuels as dependable and essential while criticizing state leaders for prioritizing “green” energy that the author says cannot deliver.
BUILD THE NEXT TECH REVOLUTION IN NEW MEXICO
EDD Sec. Rob Black says New Mexico is well-positioned to drive a new wave of technological innovation by leveraging its national laboratories, research universities, growing tech workforce, and supportive state investments. He calls for continued focus on building infrastructure, nurturing startups and advanced industries, and strengthening partnerships between government, industry, and research institutions so the state can turn scientific expertise into high-value jobs and long-term economic growth.
NEW MEXICO LAND OFFICE PROPOSES UPDATED GEOTHERMAL LEASING RULES
New Mexico’s State Land Office will hold a public hearing on Sept. 30 to gather input on proposed updates to the state’s geothermal leasing rules. The changes would replace older regulations, align them with recent legislation, and modernize how geothermal leases are issued as interest in the resource grows. Officials say New Mexico is well-positioned for expansion in geothermal energy thanks to strong geology and technical expertise. Written comments are due by Sept. 26, and the hearing will be open to the public and media.
NEW MEXICO OPENS APPLICATIONS FOR $40 MILLION TO TREAT BRACKISH WATER
New Mexico has opened applications for $40 million in funding for public and tribal projects to treat brackish groundwater as a new drought-resilient water source. The Strategic Water Supply program aims to expand water available for drinking, farming, and industry amid climate-driven shortages, with eligible projects required to enhance freshwater resources, meet quality standards, and align with local and tribal development goals.
NMSU TO LEAD HYDROPOWER PROJECT, COLLABORATE WITH NAVAJO NATION
Research partnerships between New Mexico State University and tribal partners are exploring pumped storage hydropower as a potential long-term energy storage solution. This technology could play a key role in balancing renewable energy and improving grid reliability. Academic collaboration helps position New Mexico at the forefront of energy innovation.
NEW MEXICO AWARDS $25 MILLION TO ROADRUNNER VENTURE STUDIOS FOR QUANTUM INNOVATION PUSH
New Mexico’s Economic Development Department has awarded $25 million to Roadrunner Venture Studios to lead a quantum innovation and commercialization initiative, positioning the state to become a national tech hub for quantum technologies. The Albuquerque-based venture studio will partner with national laboratories, the University of New Mexico, and other innovators to build a downtown campus featuring advanced facilities like a quantum network, testbeds, and prototyping spaces, and will focus on creating and scaling quantum startups and attracting quantum talent to the state.
PROTECTING NEW MEXICO’S WATER SUPPLY AND FARMING COMMUNITIES
New Mexico faces worsening water scarcity due to climate change, aging infrastructure, and decades of groundwater overuse, which have depleted aquifers, reduced river flows, and harmed small farms and rural communities. The Rep. Cates argues that while recent legislative investments — including funding for water projects and the Strategic Water Supply Act — are important steps, they are not enough on their own. Additional priorities include repairing critical infrastructure, supporting farmers and acequias, expanding wastewater reuse, curbing illegal water diversions, reducing non-essential turf irrigation, and strengthening the water workforce. The piece calls for sustained state and federal investment to secure reliable drinking water and protect agricultural livelihoods across New Mexico.
Water as Common Ground: The Innovation New Mexico Can Build Together
If there is one issue that should bring New Mexicans together—across regions, politics, and backgrounds—it’s water. Water is not a talking point here. It is the foundation of our communities, our agriculture, our economies, and our future. And because it matters to everyone, water can be the place where we choose to work together instead of turning on each other. A statewide challenge needs statewide teamwork New Mexico is too diverse for one-size-fits-all solutions. Our water realities are different in Farmington than they are in Las Cruces, different in Mora than they are in Albuquerque. The only way to solve a
ALBUQUERQUE’S ARRAY TECHNOLOGIES COMPLETES $179 MILLION ACQUISITION OF APA SOLAR.
Array Technologies has completed its $179 million acquisition of Ohio-based APA Solar, marking its expansion beyond solar-tracker manufacturing into broader solar infrastructure. Company leaders say the deal will strengthen Array’s product portfolio, accelerate utility-scale and distributed solar deployment, and improve earnings performance. The acquisition follows stronger-than-expected Q2 revenue of $362.2 million and led Array to raise its 2025 revenue outlook, with updated guidance expected on the next earnings call.
ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION LINE TO SUPPLY MORE POWER TO LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY CAN MOVE FORWARD
Federal officials have approved a 14-mile transmission line across the Caja del Rio Plateau to supply growing power needs at Los Alamos National Laboratory, including a new supercomputer expected in 2027. The National Nuclear Security Administration found no significant overall environmental impact, clearing the project to proceed while acknowledging unavoidable visual, noise, and cultural effects and agreeing to mitigation measures with tribes and stakeholders. Supporters say the line is critical for national security and grid reliability, but tribal and environmental groups warn it will harm wildlife habitat and culturally significant landscapes. Construction is expected to begin next summer alongside substation and fiber-optic upgrades, with total costs estimated at up to $349 million.
XGS ENERGY OFFICIAL SAYS NEW MEXICO’S GEOTHERMAL POTENTIAL COULD SPUR JOB CREATION, TAX REVENUE IN RURAL COMMUNITIES
Geothermal energy presents a major opportunity for New Mexico’s rural communities, with the potential to create good-paying jobs, expand local tax bases, and deliver long-term economic stability. By leveraging existing energy expertise and natural geothermal resources, communities across the state could benefit from development that is both environmentally responsible and economically durable. This approach highlights how clean energy can be a tool for rural revitalization, not just emissions reduction.
$2.83B MIDSTREAM INVESTMENT STRENGTHENS PERMIAN BASIN INFRASTRUCTURE
A major midstream acquisition in the Permian Basin signals continued confidence in New Mexico’s energy sector. Investments in gathering and processing infrastructure improve safety, efficiency, and environmental performance while bringing capital into southeastern New Mexico.
NEW MEXICO’S PATH FORWARD: UNLEASHING ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO END POVERTY AND BUILD OUR COMMUNITIES
New Mexico has abundant energy and natural resources that, if developed responsibly, could drive long-term economic growth and help reduce entrenched poverty, especially in rural, tribal, and frontier communities that have seen little investment. The author highlights persistent challenges like high child poverty, food insecurity, and low incomes, and argues that tapping oil and gas, renewables, critical minerals, geothermal, hydrogen, and other resources can fund education, infrastructure, jobs, and opportunity. He stresses that development must be transparent, environmentally responsible, and done in partnership with local communities to ensure real benefits and lasting prosperity for all New Mexicans..
NEW MEXICO’S ENERGY INDUSTRY IS LEADING THE WAY ON CLIMATE PROGRESS
Throughout New Mexico’s oil and gas basins, a transition continues — one that is reshaping the narrative around energy production and environmental stewardship. Late last year, analysis from S&P Global Commodity Insights revealed that methane emissions in the Permian Basin have declined so significantly that the reduction is equivalent to the annual carbon emissions avoided by every electric vehicle in the United States. This is not just a milestone — it’s transformation and innovation.
Building the Future at Home: Workforce Development and Opportunity in New Mexico
If New Mexico is serious about building a resilient, innovative, and inclusive future, workforce development must be at the center of the conversation. Technology, infrastructure, and policy matter—but none of it moves forward without people. Skilled workers are the connective tissue that turns ideas into reality, and New Mexico is uniquely positioned to lead if we choose an all-hands-on-deck approach. This is not about chasing trends or betting on a single solution. It is about diversification in the truest sense—expanding opportunity while strengthening the industries that already support our communities. Diversification Means More Options, Not Fewer Diversifying New Mexico’s economy does
SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO EXPLORES ADDITIONAL SOLAR PROPOSALS
Additional solar proposals in southern New Mexico highlight growing interest in diversifying rural economies through energy development. Solar projects can provide new revenue streams while supporting statewide energy goals.
CDL TRAINING EXPANSION SUPPORTS ENERGY AND CONSTRUCTION SECTORS
$1 million of new funding to expand CDL training at New Mexico Junior College supports the backbone of the state’s economy. Truck drivers play a critical role in energy development, construction, and agriculture, and investments like this help keep projects moving safely and efficiently.
A Place for Progress: Why This Platform Exists
In today’s world, information is everywhere—but perspective is harder to find. You can turn on the news at any hour and be told that everything is broken, that the sky is falling, that progress is impossible, and that the only responsible response is to stop, slow down, or shut things off entirely. There is no shortage of organizations willing to tell New Mexicans what not to do. What’s often missing is a place that focuses on what can be done—thoughtfully, responsibly, and together. This platform exists to help fill that gap. Telling the Whole Story, Not Just the Loudest One New
NEW MEXICO’S OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY LEADS ON WELL PLUGGING—LET’S KEEP IT THAT WAY
When it comes to environmental responsibility, New Mexico’s oil and gas industry is not just stepping up—we’re leading the way. In recent years, oil and gas operators plugged over 90% of the wells decommissioned in the state. That’s 451 wells plugged by industry, compared to just 49 plugged by the Oil Conservation Division (OCD). For every well plugged using public funds, the oil and gas industry independently plugs ten more—without fanfare, and without burdening New Mexico taxpayers.
XGS ENERGY ANNOUNCE PLANS TO BUILD GEOTHERMAL SITE IN NEW MEXICO
New Mexico continues to attract innovative energy investment, with Meta and XGS Energy planning a large-scale geothermal project that could deliver up to 150 megawatts of always-on, carbon-free power. Advanced geothermal technology like this offers a reliable complement to wind and solar while putting New Mexico’s natural resources and skilled workforce to work. Projects of this scale represent meaningful progress toward cleaner energy, stronger grid reliability, and new economic opportunities in rural parts of the state.
NEW MEXICO FUELS U.S. CRUDE OIL OUTPUT, FUNDING FOR LOCAL PROGRAMS
New Mexico has become a U.S. leader in energy production over the past five years, drawing on Permian Basin reserves in the southeastern corner of the state. Oil and gas proceeds fund an increasing share of state government, most notably involving education programs. New Mexico has quietly become an energy powerhouse. State oil production surpassed 2 million barrels per day (mb/d) in 2024, more than doubling 2019 output.
STATE LAUNCHES NEW TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION OFFICE, ANNOUNCES $90M FOR TECH ADVANCEMENT
New Mexico has created a new Technology and Innovation Office within the Economic Development Department and committed more than $90 million to support technology advancement, startups, research and development, and high-growth sectors like quantum computing, artificial intelligence and clean energy. The funding, established through House Bill 20, will help drive commercialization, talent recruitment, business incubation, and infrastructure for innovation, with the new office absorbing the existing Office of Strategy, Science and Technology and aiming to strengthen and diversify the state’s economy.
SANDIA LABS DIRECTOR: NATION NEEDS TO OVERCOME ENERGY BARRIERS, EMBRACE AI
Sandia National Laboratories’ new director says the nation must overcome energy challenges and embrace artificial intelligence to meet the intensive power demands of AI and data centers, focusing on improving algorithms, computing infrastructure, and exploring new technologies like laser-based cooling to make high-power computing more efficient. She emphasizes Sandia’s role in advancing both AI development and energy efficiency, and stresses the lab’s commitment to responding quickly to national needs by aligning workforce expertise and innovative tools to tackle complex problems.
WATER QUALITY CONTROL COMMISSION APPROVES WATER REUSE RULE
New Mexico’s Water Quality Control Commission unanimously approved new rules governing wastewater reuse, including produced water from oil and gas operations, after careful discussion of how such water can be handled without harming groundwater or the environment. Commissioners reversed an earlier move that would have allowed pilot projects to discharge treated produced water, instead requiring proper disposal and setting guidance for pilot reuse projects to ensure they do not cause contamination while the state develops stronger permitting standards.
STATES’ NUCLEAR ENERGY GROWTH NEEDS FEDERAL ACTION TO FOLLOW TRUMP’S VOCAL SUPPORT
Federal leaders are signaling strong support for expanding nuclear energy, promoting new reactors, restarting existing plants, and using federal loan programs to help projects move forward as electricity demand grows. Interest in nuclear power is also rising in some Democratic-leaning states that view it as a reliable, low-carbon energy source, though high construction costs and dependence on federal financing remain significant obstacles. Experts warn that workforce reductions, political conflicts over clean-energy tax credits, and uncertainty in federal programs could slow progress, even as policymakers and industry figures argue that nuclear development is critical for national security, economic competitiveness, and long-term climate and energy reliability goals.
STATE’S ADVANCED ENERGY AWARD PILOT PROGRAM AWARDS $3.3 MILLION TO SUPPORT NEW MEXICO’S ADVANCED ENERGY INDUSTRY
New Mexico’s Economic Development Department awarded $3.3 million through its Advanced Energy Award Pilot Program to five local advanced energy companies to support innovation and commercialization efforts in the state’s energy technology sector. The competitive grant process drew 24 applicants, with the selected firms working on a range of technologies including biomass upcycling into biochar, wildfire management tools for utilities, solar design engineering services, direct air carbon capture, and wireless sensor systems for hydrogen gas and environmental monitoring. Finalist companies that were not among the top five also received smaller funding to support further growth, and awardees will receive funding as they meet project milestones over the coming year.
CNM TO OPEN NEW $58.7M TRADES AND TECHNOLOGIES CENTER
Central New Mexico Community College is preparing to open a new $58.7 million Trades and Technologies Center after beginning construction in 2023. The facility is designed to expand career training and workforce education in technical and vocational fields, supporting local industries and helping students gain skills needed for well-paid jobs in trades and technology sectors.
STATE OFFICIALS SAY GENERATION OF RENEWABLES NOT ENOUGH TO REPLACE OIL REVENUE
State leaders say that while renewable energy generation in New Mexico has grown significantly, the revenue it produces is still far below what the state earns from oil and gas production, and it cannot replace that income one for one. They note that most money from state land leases still comes from fossil fuels and stress the need to diversify the economy, even as officials continue expanding renewable capacity and federal funding for energy projects. Garcia Richard and other officials also expressed concern about political uncertainty affecting clean energy incentives.
HYUNDAI, KIA INVEST IN PAJARITO POWDER’S HYDROGEN TECH
Hyundai Motor Group and Kia Corporation have invested in an Albuquerque-based company that makes advanced catalysts for hydrogen fuel cells and electrolyzers, completing a funding round that will help the firm scale manufacturing, refine its technology, and expand into hydrogen applications such as transportation and industrial uses. The continued backing from the global automakers reflects ongoing interest in hydrogen technology and supports the company’s efforts to grow its presence in the emerging green hydrogen market.
RENEWABLE ENERGY CONTINUES TO GROW ON PUBLIC LANDS
Renewable energy development on public lands in New Mexico and across the West continues to expand, with increasing numbers of solar, wind, and energy storage projects moving forward on federal and state-managed areas. Officials and industry stakeholders say this growth supports job creation, investment, and the transition to cleaner energy, though challenges remain in balancing environmental protection, cultural resources, and community concerns as deployment accelerates. Public agencies are also updating permitting processes to help streamline approvals and maintain momentum for future renewable projects.
GOVERNOR SHOULD SIGN BILL TO SUPPORT WORKERS, CLIMATE GOALS
The author urges the governor to approve House Bill 458, arguing that establishing a clear framework for long term stewardship of carbon storage projects will both advance climate goals and support skilled workers in New Mexico. The bill is described as a way to ensure strong environmental protections while creating stable, high quality jobs connected to energy infrastructure and emerging carbon management technology. It is framed as an opportunity for the state to lead in responsible climate innovation while strengthening communities and the workforce that helps build and maintain these projects.
STARTUP GROWTH REINFORCES LINK BETWEEN INNOVATION AND ENERGY ACCESS
New Mexico’s growing startup ecosystem highlights the connection between innovation, talent, and reliable energy infrastructure. Companies choosing to locate in the state often cite quality of life, workforce, and operational costs as key factors. Continued investment in energy reliability supports long-term economic diversification.
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SITE-READINESS LEGISLATION STRENGTHENS LOCAL ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS
New site-readiness legislation signed by the state aims to help communities prepare for economic development opportunities before they arrive. By improving coordination and infrastructure planning, communities can move faster and with greater certainty when projects emerge. Energy access remains a central component of these efforts.
NEW MEXICO’S COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN DATA CENTER INNOVATION
New Mexico is positioned to become a leading hub for data center innovation as demand for data storage and computing capacity continues to surge, driven by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and big data. Data center demand could more than triple by 2030, creating opportunities for new technologies that improve energy efficiency, reduce water use, and increase performance. The state offers key advantages, including world-class research institutions such as Sandia National Laboratories and Los Alamos National Laboratory, a growing semiconductor and information technology ecosystem, and abundant renewable energy resources.