House Bill 13, a bill that will modernize New Mexico’s energy distribution system, passed the House Floor

SANTA FE, NM—House Bill (HB) 13, also known as Power Up New Mexico, sponsored by Representative Hochman-Vigil, passed the House Floor today and now moves to the Senate.

National business association Advanced Energy United endorsed the bill, which will lead to better planning and more timely updates to the state’s electric distribution system, the part of the grid in our communities that connects our homes and businesses to the electricity system.

“Our electric grid is the backbone of New Mexico’s economy and daily life, and we must ensure it is resilient, reliable, and ready for the future,” said Rep. Day Hochman-Vigil. “With the passage of this legislation, we are taking a proactive step toward modernizing our distribution system, expanding access to cost-saving, high-efficiency technologies, and managing energy demand in a way that keeps costs low for families and businesses. By investing in a smarter grid and equipping communities with the tools they need, we are strengthening our state’s energy security and ensuring New Mexico is prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.” 

The bill will ensure grid planning is aligned with state policy, prevent costly, last-minute upgrades through timely investments to accommodate growing demand, and reduce air pollution by making it easier to electrify transportation. It also directs the state’s utilities to file plans to help their customers voluntarily adopt high-efficiency, money-saving, clean electric appliances, with at least 20% of the program directed towards low-income households.

"Our grid is overdue for an update, and to keep the lights on while ensuring power remains reliable and affordable, we must modernize our distribution system. This legislation offers proactive solutions to ‘future-proof’ our electrical grid, helps communities adopt the most high-efficiency and cost-saving appliances, and manages growing energy demand– without driving up costs, even as extreme weather and heat events put additional strain on the system and on family wallets,” said Michael Barrio, New Mexico lead for Advanced Energy United. “By investing in a smarter, more efficient grid and buildings, we can control costs for consumers and ensure long-term reliability. This legislation is a critical step toward a stronger, more adaptable grid that meets our energy needs now and in the future without burdening ratepayers.”

 Advanced Energy United urges the New Mexico Senate to advance this common-sense bill that will reduce costs, protect vulnerable families, and support an affordable energy future.