News Release

July 9, 2004

PNM San Juan Generating Station Continues Commitment
to San Juan College Renewable Energy Program

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NEWS MEDIA CONTACT Susan Sponar Telephone: (505) 241-2768

Waterflow: The PNM San Juan Generating Station (SJGS) continues its strong commitment to the San Juan College Renewable Energy Program with a recent donation of $34,000. In 2001, SJGS contributed $50,000 for the start-up of the program and committed to an additional $100,000 over a three-year time period starting in 2003.

The Renewable Energy Program, started in the fall of 2000, gives students a solid foundation in fundamental physics and design / installation techniques required to work with renewable technologies. The program has grown from two students in its first year to its current enrollment of 30 students.

Students can earn either a one-year certificate or a two-year associate's degree in Photovoltaic System Design and Installation.

"Donations to San Juan College make it possible for students to learn hands-on skills in the renewable energy industry," said Carl Bickford, director of the Renewable Energy program at San Juan College. "With these advanced skills, students have unlimited employment opportunities in the growing renewable energy business sector. Students with renewable energy education can help companies fulfill their business needs and achieve their energy goals."

Students receive electrical training in a modern computer-based laboratory setting where wiring to the National Electrical Code (NEC) is emphasized. Instructors are experienced and trained in renewable energy electrical and / or thermal applications.

"Education on renewable energy is only one step in providing effective and environmentally useful means of obtaining energy from natural resources," said Russell Huffman, SJGS plant manager.

PNM's support also made possible two 2.3-kilowatt solar electrical array panels; a solar panel system that allows the tracking heads to follow the sun throughout the day providing renewable energy.

PNM is the principal subsidiary of PNM Resources, an energy holding company based in Albuquerque. PNM provides electric utility service to 387,000 customers and natural gas service to 450,000 customers in New Mexico. The company also sells power on the wholesale market in the Western U.S. PNM Resources stock is traded primarily on the NYSE under the symbol PNM.

SJGS is a 1,798-megawatt coal-fired power plant located 15 miles northwest of Farmington, N.M. The plant is PNM's primary generation source, providing 60 percent of the power needed by PNM customers. PNM operates the plant on behalf of the company and eight other owners.