Two utility-scale solar projects have broken ground in northwest New Mexico. These installations are situated near a shuttered coal plant and will provide carbon-free electricity to Los Alamos County and Meta data center operations. This transition highlights the shift toward renewable energy infrastructure in regions previously dependent on fossil fuels. The projects leverage existing land and potential grid connections to accelerate the state's move toward a cleaner power grid.
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Building near a shuttered coal plant is a smart move for interconnection. Using existing transmission corridors saves years of permitting. I wonder if they are reusing the actual substation or if that needs a full upgrade to handle the solar variability.
The real question is the procurement structure. Meta has aggressive carbon-free energy goals, so this is likely a direct PPA. It is a good example of corporate demand driving the actual buildout rather than just waiting for state mandates.
Basically swapping a coal plant for solar. Good to see Los Alamos County getting a cleaner mix. The link to data center power needs makes the financing a lot more straightforward.
