Three companies are collaborating to build a community solar investment portfolio in New Mexico, consisting of 8 projects and 48.4 megawatts. These arrays are one of the first to be built in the New Community Solar Program in New Mexico.

Pluma Construction in New Mexico is developing a community solar product portfolio with the support of ForeFront Power. Standard Solar has acquired these projects and will own and operate them upon completion. Solstice Power Technologies will handle customer subscription matters during operation.

Making community solar plans a reality in New Mexico will greatly benefit residents across the state, "said Chris Pacheco, founder of Pluma Construction. This is an important step in New Mexico's pursuit of a clean and affordable energy future. We are pleased to partner with Forefront Power and now with Standard Solar and Solstice, who will drive operations, subscriptions, and customer acquisition. As these projects unfold, their leadership will reassure me and my fellow New Mexico citizens. ”

These projects will be built on both public and private land - several of which are located on land under the New Mexico Land Trust Fund. The first few projects have been completed, and the remaining projects are expected to be launched throughout the year.

Eric Partyka, Director of Business Development at Standard Solar, said, "The community solar market in New Mexico is growing rapidly, and the real milestone is getting the project into operation to start generating electricity and save users' monthly electricity bills." "As a long-term owner and operator, we are pleased to partner with Pluma and ForeFront to help put this product portfolio into commercial operation. We will continue to operate these sites with the discipline and reliability expected by users, so that customers can see sustained bill savings and communities can access sustainable clean energy as the project scales up. ”

The first community solar project in New Mexico was completed by Affordable Solar in Texas in October. The state enacted the Community Solar Energy Act in 2021, but its implementation has been slow due to regulatory and utility barriers.