The State of New Mexico has selected the Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE) to support a $156 million federal Solar for All initiative aimed at expanding clean energy access for low-income communities.
The funding, part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s $7 billion Solar for All program, will enable the state to broaden the reach of residential solar and energy storage solutions to disadvantaged households across New Mexico. The initiative supports the state’s climate agenda while targeting economic and environmental equity.
The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department will sponsor the program through its Energy Conservation and Management Division (ECAM). CSE, which administers over $4 billion in clean energy and transportation programs in 14 states, will assist with the design, administration and rollout of New Mexico’s effort.
“CSE, working collaboratively with ECAM and stakeholders, will coordinate a comprehensive strategy for helping New Mexico achieve the promise of this historic investment,” said Gabrielle Stebbins, CSE’s director of distributed energy markets. “This program is about more than just solar and storage, it’s about delivering energy justice and real savings to families who need it most.”
The federal Solar for All initiative is aimed at reaching an estimated 900,000 low-income households nationwide. In New Mexico, where energy burdens are particularly high in rural and tribal communities, the program is expected to have a significant impact. Its goal is to provide solar and energy storage resources to approximately 21,000 low-income and disadvantaged households throughout the state, with the aim of reducing their utility bills by 20% or more over the long term.
CSE’s responsibilities will include elements of program design, fiscal oversight, stakeholder engagement, public outreach, technical assistance, contractor oversight and workforce development. The center will also provide technical assistance and application support, working closely with community-based organizations, local governments and industry stakeholders to ensure broad participation. Key to the strategy is a collaborative approach that includes partnerships with state entities, solar developers, utilities, academic researchers and nonprofit groups.
The announcement underscores New Mexico’s growing role in national climate policy. With abundant sunshine and a strong commitment to decarbonization, the state is positioning itself as a testbed for clean energy equity.
While program details are still in development, ECAM and CSE are expected to begin implementation planning immediately, with funding expected to be fully expended before the program ends in 2029.
For CSE, the New Mexico project represents both a challenge and a chance to apply lessons from its work in other states.
“This is a rare opportunity to transform energy access at scale,” said Stebbins. “CSE is proud to be part of a team that’s making solar power work for everyone.”
