On Wednesday, the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission reached a decision regarding PNM's request to increase electric rates. David Coss, chair of the Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter, provided a statement on the outcome.

Coss noted that the decision had mixed implications for ratepayers and environmental health. He stated, "While PNM got its way on making consumers pay for its poor decision to reinvest in coal, the commission prevented PNM from punishing ratepayers with significantly higher service fees, and we customers won’t have to foot the bill for the company’s unnecessary San Juan Generating Station expenses."

The commission decided not to pass on a $53 million cost to customers for equipment installed at San Juan Generating Station. According to Coss, this equipment was not required by environmental authorities and lacked clear environmental benefits. He expressed concern that if PNM's proposal had been approved, shareholders would benefit at consumers' expense.

Additionally, PNM's attempt to increase monthly service fees from $5 to $13 was denied. The new fee is set at $7. Coss highlighted that high base fees disproportionately affect low-income customers and discourage energy efficiency and residential solar investment.

However, there were decisions in favor of PNM as well. The commission allowed charges related to PNM's investments in Four Corners Power Plant despite concerns about long-term commitments to coal energy without prior approval.

The commission also rejected a pilot program proposed by PNM aimed at encouraging energy efficiency and rooftop solar while maintaining stable rates. Coss suggested that misunderstandings might have influenced this denial.