New Solar Power Generation Station Dedicated in Northern New Mexico
Can New Mexico get even more solar plants than it already has?
By Anca Gagiuc, Associate Editor
The interconnection to the electricity grid of a new solar power generation facility has been celebrated in Springer, New Mexico. USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner, 3rd District Congressman Ben Ray Lujan and representatives of Springer Electric Cooperative were present at the event.
“Today’s dedication of this project shows USDA Rural Development’s commitment to modernize America’s infrastructure.” Brunner said in a news release, “We are proud to help Springer Electric lead the way in diversifying energy sources among rural electric coops by investing in their solar project”, he added.
The 1.3 megawatt solar array spreads across seven acres of land and is capable of powering 400 homes. The solar plant has been commissioned by Array Technologies. The project was funded by USDA Rural Development’ Rural Utility Service through a $14.1 million grant. Aside from the $3.4 million used to construct the photovoltaic facility, the money will be used to improve 74 miles of electric line, while $518,000 is used to upgrade the electric system with smart grid technology.
Springer Electric Cooperative serves the New Mexico counties of Colfax, Harding, Mora, San Miguel, and Union, including the communities of Cimarron, Maxwell, Roy, Wagon Mound, Mosquero, and Folsom. The Cooperative also provides wholesale power to the Town of Springer municipal electric system.
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