Anjali Taneja House District 18 | Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter
After announcing plans to drop one of its leases in the Palo Verde Nuclear plant last year, PNM has proposed replacing this energy source with 100% solar and battery storage. This proposal aligns with the Energy Transition Act's requirements and follows the Public Regulation Commission's decision last year to favor a 100% solar/storage plan over PNM’s preferred gas-inclusive replacement for the San Juan Generating Station coal. The new proposal awaits approval from the commission.
PNM explained that its choice of carbon emission-free generation to replace Palo Verde considered "the state’s energy transition policies and long-term mandate for a carbon emission-free generation portfolio." While further examination of PNM’s application is pending, there is optimism about supporting PNM’s request for prompt approval of these replacement resources.
"The Energy Transition Act is working, moving us steadily away from dirty energies and toward clean, affordable renewable energy. PNM’s announcement that it wants to replace nuclear energy it holds in Arizona with all solar and battery storage is good for customers because it’s cheaper and it’s cleaner," stated Camilla Feibelman, Sierra Club – Rio Grande Chapter Director.
"Our coalition advocates for clean and affordable energy. Last July, the PRC accepted our proposal for 100% solar and battery replacement for PNM coal at San Juan, and now we’re seeing the same encouraging steps to replace Palo Verde nuclear," said Stephanie Dzur, attorney for Coalition for Clean and Affordable Energy.
In analyzing potential portfolios for resource needs in 2023, PNM confirmed considering changes in energy policies implemented over the past two years. They accounted for state energy transition policies and mandates towards a carbon emission-free generation portfolio. Additionally, they acknowledged the Commission's decision on a resource portfolio that emphasized renewable energy over gas combustion resources.
