Santa Fe County is studying whether to create a publicly owned utility. (Santa Fe New Mexican)
Commissioners approved a resolution to fund a feasibility study, exploring models such as a co-op or county-run utility that could integrate solar, microgrids, and bulk power purchase.
The push follows PNM’s proposed $11.5B takeover by Blackstone, which has raised concerns about private equity influence and potential rate hikes.
County leaders also cite growing climate and reliability risks—including PNM’s wildfire-related power shutoffs—and say local ownership could “future-proof” the grid as New Mexico transitions toward an all-electric economy.