New Mexico Urged to Act Quickly on Solar for All Grant Funding
By Hannah Grover
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the unfreezing of funds for the Solar for All grant program, a significant development for New Mexico, which is set to receive $156 million aimed at enhancing renewable energy access for low-income households. This grant is part of a larger $7 billion funding initiative established by the Inflation Reduction Act.
Art O’Donnell, a technical advisor at the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC), informed state regulators during a special meeting that prompt action is essential to secure these funds. He noted that the Solar for All program had faced funding delays since the Trump administration, which halted access to financial resources under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and the Inflation Reduction Act.
The reopening of the EPA funding portal comes amid concerns over potential fraud linked to the management of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. A press release by the EPA highlighted allegations of $20 billion in fraud, emphasizing the need for accountability in spending. Despite these challenges, O’Donnell stressed that the current landscape surrounding the grant remains “fluid,” urging New Mexico to expedite measures for fund allocation.
The state Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department is overseeing grant management, with PRC potentially accessing $18 million for vital interconnection upgrades necessary for community solar projects. However, this amount may fall short of the total funding required for all upgrades, prompting O’Donnell to indicate the need for robust allocation criteria.
As New Mexico navigates this critical funding opportunity, timely action is crucial to leverage these resources for enhancing renewable energy solutions statewide.
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