Dive Brief:
- New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez yesterday announced a broad new energy policy titled “Seizing our Energy Potential: Creating a More Diverse Economy in New Mexico.”
- The plan will promote all sources of energy, diversify the energy sector improve the state's energy infrastructure, according to the governor's office.
- The plan will also establish a low carbon energy portfolio standard aimed at bolstering the state's renewable portfolio and improving air quality.
Dive Insight:
New Mexico Gov. Martinez yesterday unveiled a broad energy plan for the state, its first comprehensive strategy to power needs since 1991.
“New Mexico is one of the most energy-rich and energy-diverse states in the nation, and we have an excellent opportunity to utilize this position to grow our economy and create more jobs,” Martinez said in a statement. “Improving our energy infrastructure, responsibly developing and producing energy of all types, and better preparing our workforce for the needs of our energy sector are all critical components not only of a strong economic future, but of helping lead America to energy
independence.”
The plan calls for modernizing infrastructure, embracing all sources of energy and improving energy workforce training in schools.
"From new rail lines to improved electric transmission, our state can better move our energy and its products to markets in Southwest and Southeast United States, and into Mexico and other global markets," Martinez wrote.
Specifically, she said rail from the Four Corners region to I-40 would reduce the cost of transporting coal and crude oil, and that the state should look at opportunities to send natural gas to Mexico. The plan calls for exploring greater renewable production, reducing costs associated with solar production, and boosting natural gas demand through credits for natural has vehicles.
"At a much larger level, the plan also contemplates building upon New Mexico’s current renewable portfolio standard by establishing a lowcarbon energy portfolio standard that would dramatically improve air quality by stimulating production of all types of low-carbon, cleaner energy sources," Martinez' office said.
Martinez plan also focused on the need to remove, "necessary burdens on energy industry operations" to bolster production, growth and investment in New Mexico.