Solar Garden Demonstrates Haaland’s Vision to Invest in New Mexico, Lower Utility Costs

Santa Fe, NM –Today, Democratic candidate for governor Deb Haaland attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Juniper Sol Community Solar Garden, alongside Navajo Technical University and the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women. This is the first community solar farm located in Santa Fe County, New Mexico. The solar garden is an example of the community investments Haaland includes in her plan to lower costs on utilities while ensuring New Mexicans have reliable electricity.

The Juniper Sol Community Solar Garden includes more than 10,000 solar panels and will produce 5MW of power. In addition to reducing carbon emissions and supporting New Mexico’s transition to renewable energy, the project offers affordable subscription options for residents. By partnering with community organizations, Juniper Sol ensures that energy savings are distributed equitably, prioritizing low-income households and expanding access to sustainable power across Santa Fe County.

“People shouldn’t have to choose between putting gas in their car, paying for groceries, or paying their electricity bill. That’s why projects like this are so important. Juniper Sol is making the cost-saving benefits of renewable energy accessible to all, including renters and those who can’t afford the upfront installation of solar,” said Haaland at the event. “As we look to fight rising costs, we have an opportunity to expand creative and smart local projects like community solar.”

Haaland’s plan to lower utility costs and provide reliable electricity for New Mexico includes:

• Creating a hub that centralizes all existing programs, including federal programs, that save New Mexicans money on utilities.
• Improving the efficiency of community solar, balcony, and porch solar programs by eliminating red tape to get tax credits, requiring consolidated billing, and allowing flexibility on public buildings.
• Committing investments in renewable energy projects and workforce development.

As Secretary of the Interior Department, Haaland successfully managed a workforce of 70,000 and oversaw billions of dollars in investments that strengthened America’s clean energy economy. She invested over $10 billion into New Mexico through infrastructure projects, conservation efforts, and clean energy development.