News Release

April 19, 2013
Energy-Saving Programs Help Keep New Mexico Skies Blue

Albuquerque: There are many energy milestones New Mexicans can celebrate this Earth Day including experiencing the benefits of renewable energy and energy-saving programs.

Renewable Energy

  • By the end of 2013, if you are a PNM customer, you will get twice as much energy from the sun as you do today.
  • Solar centers are being expanded.
  • The number of customers taking advantage of PNM's customer solar program continues to grow.
  • The first utility-scale geothermal plant in the state is being developed to serve PNM customers.

Energy Efficiency

  • Customers participating in energy-saving programs have helped to save 706 million kWh since 2007, which is enough energy to power 95,000 homes for a year.
  • Thousands of wasteful refrigerators and freezers were recycled locally.
  • Customers swapped out millions of old light bulbs for more energy efficient ones.
  • Efforts by customers resulted in saving more than 39,000 metric tons of carbon and 28.3 million gallons of water just last year.
  • Local businesses have cashed in as well, making energy-saving changes and receiving rebates of over $27 million since 2007.

In the days surrounding Earth Day, PNM will participate in multiple community events to drive awareness for energy efficiency, sustainability and the environment. Customers are invited to visit the PNM booth for energy-efficiency tips and other information at the following events:

  • April 20, 10 a.m. ¿ 4 p.m. Silver City - Earth Day Festival at Gough Park
  • April 21, 8 a.m. ¿ 5 p.m. Albuquerque- 23rd Annual Celebrate the Earth Festival at Nob Hill
  • April 26, 8 a.m. ¿ 4 p.m. Ruidoso- Water for a Viable Future in Lincoln & Otero Counties at Eastern NM University
  • April 27-28, 10 a.m. ¿ 4p.m. Santa Fe- 2013 NMSEA Solar Fiesta at Santa Fe Community
    Community College
  • April 27, 9 a.m. ¿ 4p.m. Alamogordo Community Earth Day Fair at the Alameda Park
    Zoo

PNM's Community Crew, which is a group of employee volunteers, will be also participating in numerous Earth Day related activities including e-waste recycling, work on the Animas River, school and community gardens and restoration of open space.

"PNM is committed to leadership when it comes to sustainable changes that benefit the environment," said Ron Darnell, senior vice president, PNM Public Policy. "Being part of so many great events allows us a chance to encourage customers of all ages to become aware of their energy use, save money and help the environment."

To find out more about PNM's energy efficiency rebates, please visit http://www.pnm.com/rebates/.

With headquarters in Albuquerque, PNM is the largest electricity provider in New Mexico, serving 500,000 customers in dozens of communities across the state. PNM is a subsidiary of PNM Resources, an energy holding company also headquartered in Albuquerque. For more information, visit PNM.com.