A major community solar initiative is gaining momentum in New Mexico as Pluma Construction, ForeFront Power and Standard Solar roll out a combined 48.4-megawatt (MW) solar portfolio designed to expand clean energy access across the state.
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The eight-project portfolio is already partially operational, with additional capacity expected to come online through 2026. Once fully completed, the projects are projected to generate more than 103,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) annually, delivering bill credits and cost savings to thousands of subscribers.
The initiative represents one of the first major deployments under New Mexico’s Community Solar Program, marking a key step forward as the state scales renewable energy adoption.
“New Mexico’s community solar market is moving fast, and the real milestone is getting projects into operation so they can start generating power and providing savings,” said Eric Partyka of Standard Solar.
Several of the solar sites are located on land managed by the New Mexico State Land Office, alongside privately developed sites, helping broaden access to clean energy across urban and rural communities.
The project brings together multiple partners to manage development, operations and customer enrollment. While Pluma Construction led development, ForeFront Power supported execution, and Standard Solar acquired the portfolio for long-term ownership and operations. Meanwhile, Solstice is overseeing subscriber acquisition and engagement.
“Making New Mexico’s Community Solar Program a reality will greatly benefit residents across the state,” said Chris Pacheco. “This is a major step forward in the pursuit of a clean, affordable energy future in New Mexico. It’s great to partner with Forefront Power and now with Standard Solar and Solstice, who will be driving operations, subscriptions and customer acquisition. Their leadership will provide peace of mind for me and my fellow New Mexicans as these projects unfold.”
“ForeFront Power has been pleased to work with Pluma Construction, as their partner for New Mexico's innovative Community Solar Program,” said Ruben Fontes. “Now that Standard Solar has purchased the portfolio and the first projects are online, we look forward to seeing it contribute to New Mexico’s future as both a clean energy state and a national beacon on energy affordability.”
“New Mexico’s community solar market is moving fast, and the real milestone is getting projects into operation so they can start generating power and providing savings on subscribers’ monthly electric bills,” said Eric Partyka. “As the long-term owner and operator, we’re grateful to work alongside Pluma and ForeFront to help bring this portfolio to commercial operation. We’re here for the duration, operating these sites with the discipline and reliability subscribers expect, so customers see consistent bill savings and communities get durable clean energy as the program scales.”
The portfolio is launching at a time when demand for community solar in New Mexico is rapidly outpacing available capacity. A recent expansion of the statewide program added 300 MW to the cap, yet early subscriber interest has already exceeded expectations.
By bringing projects online quickly while continuing construction on additional sites, the development team is helping translate policy momentum into real-world benefits for households and businesses.
“We’re proud to already be serving thousands of New Mexicans who have signed up to be part of these solar farms—families who are now seeing savings on their monthly energy bills thanks to clean power generated right here in their own communities,” said Sandhya Murali. “With these projects officially online, we’re excited to continue serving even more households in the months ahead. These active projects have enough capacity to enroll approximately 2,500 additional households, with more on the horizon.”
A ribbon-cutting event is also planned at the Pino solar site near Santa Fe, further highlighting the program’s growing footprint.
The 48.4 MW solar portfolio marks a significant step in scaling community solar in New Mexico, combining public-private partnerships, strong subscriber demand and long-term operational planning to expand access to affordable clean energy statewide.
Originally reported by Business Wire.
