Athena Christodoulou Senate District 21 | Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter
In response to the announcement of Avangrid's planned acquisition of PNM Resources, several community groups have expressed their perspectives on the potential impacts and opportunities arising from this transaction.
Mike Eisenfeld, Energy and Climate Program Manager at San Juan Citizens Alliance, emphasized the importance of renewable energy investment in the Four Corners region. "We look forward to more details on how Avangrid intends to invest in significant renewable energy innovation in the Four Corners region, in line with PNM’s current actions in accordance with the Energy Transition Act," he stated. He highlighted the need for comprehensive transition planning as coal plants retire.
Nicole Horseherder from To Nizhoni Ani, Navajo Nation, pointed out the critical opportunity to protect water sources. "A transition to solar, wind, renewable, clean-energy investments helps eliminate the waste and misuse of water," she said.
Noah Long, Western Director of NRDC’s Climate and Clean Energy Program, remarked on New Mexico's commitment to a clean-energy future under the Energy Transition Act. "It’s reasonable for New Mexicans to hope and expect that this transaction only accelerates investments and job opportunities in New Mexico’s renewable energy resources," he commented.
Camilla Feibelman, Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter Director, urged Avangrid to commit to cleaning up coal plants and reinvesting in a renewable economy. She noted that retiring coal plants could save ratepayers millions according to a report by Strategen for Sierra Club.
Lucas Herndon from ProgressNow New Mexico observed interest from global companies like Avangrid due to New Mexico's strides towards renewable energy. Sanders Moore of Policy Solutions Institute encouraged Avangrid to support communities affected by fossil fuel transitions.
Ben Shelton from Conservation Voters New Mexico expressed optimism about Avangrid's investment validating New Mexico's potential as a leader in renewable energy generation. John Ammondson from Environment New Mexico hoped for an accelerated energy transition through this acquisition.
Kyle Tisdel with Western Environmental Law Center stressed the need for sustainable economic development within communities alongside corporate investments.
The collective statements reflect both anticipation and expectations regarding how Avangrid will contribute to New Mexico's clean-energy initiatives while supporting local communities during this transition period.
