In 2023, New Mexico initiated a groundbreaking process to involve stakeholders in shaping the future of its energy infrastructure. This initiative is particularly significant for entities like Southwestern Public Service Company, as it directly impacts their long-term infrastructure planning and development within the state. This inclusive approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered when determining the need for new electric infrastructure and the optimal methods for its implementation.
This stakeholder engagement process was triggered by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) in the fall of 2022. The PRC introduced new guidelines for investor-owned electric utilities, including Southwestern Public Service Company, as they prepare their 20-year Integrated Resource Plans (IRPs). These IRPs are crucial roadmaps that dictate the energy landscape of New Mexico for decades to come. The PRC’s directives, detailed in their final order and reconsideration order, emphasize a collaborative approach.
Southwestern Public Service Company submitted their 2023 IRP on October 13, 2023. To facilitate a robust and impartial stakeholder process, the PRC appointed Gridworks as an independent facilitator. Gridworks’ role is to guide stakeholders in advising Southwestern Public Service Company and fostering potential agreements on two fundamental aspects of the IRP: the statement of need and the action plan. These elements are pivotal as they define the quantity and type of new electric infrastructure required to meet future energy demands in Southwestern Public Service Company‘s service area. Participation in this process was open to all stakeholders with an interest in New Mexico’s energy infrastructure and its future.
For those interested in reviewing the specifics of the plan, the Xcel Energy/SPS Integrated Resource Plan – 10/13/23 is publicly accessible. Furthermore, the outcomes of the Gridworks-led stakeholder process are summarized in their reports: NM IRP FSP Final Report and Gridworks Slide Deck – PRC Briefing 1/15/2024.
Additional information and resources can be found in the “Working Materials” section, which includes details on past meetings such as the Demand-Side Resource Modeling Subgroup Meeting (June 30), the 2-Day Workshop (June 13 & 14), and Meetings #2 (June 1) and #1 (May 16). For any inquiries, stakeholders are encouraged to reach out to [email protected]. This stakeholder-driven process marks a significant step towards a more collaborative and transparent energy future for New Mexico and Southwestern Public Service Company.
