FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 12, 2025

Valencia County, NM – Affordable Solar is proud to announce the groundbreaking and construction of New Mexico’s first-ever Community Solar project, marking a significant milestone in the state’s transition to clean energy and community-driven sustainability. The Cuidando Los Niños Community Solar Project, located in Valencia County, expands access to renewable energy for New Mexicans and reinforces the commitment to environmental and social progress.

The project is being built in partnership with New Mexico’s Gridworks, a trusted leader in solar construction. It is named in honor of the non-profit organization Cuidando Los Niños, which provides critical services for children and families experiencing homelessness.

The Community Solar Act (SB84), signed into law in April 2021, laid the foundation for projects like this one, allowing electric utility customers to subscribe to power produced by a renewable energy facility less than 5 MWs. Subscribers can offset their monthly energy costs through credits on their utility bills.

Community Solar projects, like this one, aim to make solar energy more accessible to individuals, businesses, and nonprofits that would otherwise not be able to install solar. Fifty percent of the project’s energy production will directly support lowering electric bills for qualified low-income New Mexicans.

Affordable Solar was honored to be awarded seven Community Solar projects, totaling 35 megawatts (MW). Power produced from this system will offset the equivalent energy usage of approximately 15,000 homes.

“After nearly four years of hard work, we are ecstatic to begin construction on this historic project and to play a role in bringing renewable energy to communities across New Mexico,” said Dylan Connelly, Project Developer at Affordable Solar. “This project not only reflects our commitment to clean energy but also highlights our dedication to giving back to the communities where we live and work.”

In recognition of Cuidando Los Niños’ vital work, Affordable Solar made an initial donation to the organization upon receiving the project award, with a larger contribution planned upon the project’s completion in early summer 2025.

About Affordable Solar:

Affordable Solar is a leading provider of solar energy solutions in New Mexico, dedicated to delivering high-quality renewable energy projects that benefit communities, businesses, and the environment. With a focus on innovation and community partnerships, Affordable Solar continues to pave the way for a sustainable future.

About Gridworks:

Gridworks is a top-ranked engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firm based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Gridworks is committed to addressing the global challenges of climate change and building a more sustainable future through providing solar and energy storage solutions for developers and utility clients. Gridworks has installed over 1.9 GW+ of renewable energy across the United States.

About Cuidando Los Niños:

Cuidando Los Niños is a non-profit organization based in Albuquerque, NM, dedicated to supporting children and families experiencing homelessness. Through early childhood education, therapeutic services, and family support programs, Cuidando Los Niños helps create brighter futures for those in need.

To learn more about Affordable Solar and the Cuidando Los Niños Community Solar Project, please visit our website or contact us: https://affordable-solar.com/communitv-solar/