Protect the Grid
Peak Energy Demand Occurs Between
4 pm - 9 pm
Conserving during these hours helps support reliable service.
Understanding current electric system conditions serving far NE Albuquerque
Far Northeast Albuquerque (shown on the map) has experienced continued growth over the years, resulting in increased demand for electricity in the area. During periods of extreme heat, when electricity use is at its highest, that increased demand places additional strain on the local electric infrastructure and can increase the risk of outages.
PNM is continuously monitoring system conditions to help maintain reliable electric service. If conditions indicate that electricity demand is approaching levels that could affect the reliability of the local electric system, we may ask customers to voluntarily reduce electricity use between the hours of 4p.m. and 9p.m.
By reducing electricity use during peak hours, customers can help lessen demand on the system and support reliable service throughout the community.
What You Need To Know
If demand becomes especially high, customers in far Northeast Albuquerque may be asked to voluntarily conserve electricity between 4p.m. and 9p.m.
Stay informed
PNM is monitoring system conditions and will let you know if action is needed.
Conserve Electricity
If necessary, customers may be asked to voluntarily conserve electricity between 4p.m. and 9 p.m.
What You Can Do
Simple conservation steps can help reduce stress on the electric system during periods of extreme heat.
Be Prepared
Prepare for potential outages by building or restocking an emergency preparedness kit.
Keep Updated
PNM will continue to provide updates if conditions change.
Investing in Long-Term Reliability
Far Northeast Albuquerque continues to grow, and that growth brings greater demand for electricity.
Over the past decade, customer growth and increasing electricity demand have placed additional strain on the local electric infrastructure.
PNM has repeatedly sought approval to build a new substation to serve customers in the far Northeast Heights and those attempts have been denied. These improvements are needed to increase system capacity, improve reliability during periods of high demand, and support future growth.
Learn more about the proposed project and its benefits to this community.
Will my power be affected?
This is an advance notice so customers understand current system conditions and know how they can help if conservation becomes necessary. If system conditions change, PNM will communicate directly with affected customers.
Prepare for Potential Outages
Customers in far Northeast Albuquerque should also prepare for potential outages by building or restocking an emergency preparedness kit, planning for medical needs and making sure they have any information needed if power is unavailable.
How You Can Help
Raise your thermostat a few degrees
Raise your thermostat by 2 or 3 degrees, if it is safe to do so.
Delay laundry and dishwashing
Delay the use of large appliances like dishwashers, dryers, and ovens until later in the evening.
Charge EVs after 9 p.m.
Limit electric vehicle charging to overnight hours, if possible.
Turn off unnecessary lights
Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.
Limit energy-intensive activities
Avoid high-energy tasks like baking or heavy appliance use until after peak hours to help reduce demand.
Use fans when possible
Use ceiling or portable fans to stay cool and reduce reliance on air conditioning during peak times.
Open Drapes and Windows
When outdoor temperatures drop in the evening, open window and drapes to bring in cooler air naturally and reduce the need for air conditioning.
Clear around your air conditioner
Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of debris, plants, and obstructions so it can run efficiently and use less energy.
Stay informed and be prepared:
- Make sure your contact information with PNM is up to date.
- Plan ahead for any essential or medical power needs.
- Check the status of an outage anytime using the PNM Outage Map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Extreme heat increases electricity demand across the community. In far Northeast Albuquerque, periods of sustained high demand can place additional strain on the local electric infrastructure and increase the risk of outages. By reducing electricity use during peak hours, customers can help lessen demand on the system and support reliable service for the entire community.
We wanted to provide advance notice of current electric system conditions and ensure you had the opportunity to ask questions before broader customer communications are distributed.
No. We are not predicting an outage. This outreach is intended to provide advance notice of current system conditions and potential voluntary conservation requests. However, we wanted to provide advance notice of these conditions and encourage you to review any preparedness plans that are appropriate for your situation in the event of an outage.
If PNM issues a voluntary conservation request, we encourage customers to conserve electricity where it can be done safely. If you rely on electricity for medical equipment or other health-related needs, those needs should always take priority.
PNM is actively managing current system conditions while continuing to pursue the long-term infrastructure improvements needed to strengthen reliability in this area.