New Mexico commission approves fast-tracking of Facebook-linked solar projects

To power the expansion of a Facebook data center in Los Lunas, N.M., the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC) has agreed to fast-track two solar plants capable of generating 100 megawatts of renewable energy.

“By supporting industry we are putting people to work without compromising consumer protection,” Chairman Sandy Jones said. “This commission worked long and hard to bring Facebook to New Mexico and we will work just as hard to help it grow.”

The Sept. 5 vote by the commission limits the time for protests from any intervening parties to 20 days, meaning commissioners could issue a final order by Sept. 26. If protests are filed, a hearing would likely be scheduled on Oct. 17, with a final order issued October 31, the NMPRC said.

In total, the pair of facilities – to be established near Moriarty, New Mexico and Rio Rancho, New Mexico, respectively – will cost $140 million to build and provide up to 400 construction jobs in the process. The Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) is proposing the facilities, but they will be owned and operated by subsidiaries, through which PNM will buy energy and deliver it to Facebook.

Existing utility rates will not be affected by the move. Completion of the first facility is expected by Dec. 31, 2019 and the second should follow by June 30, 2020.