Over the recent period spanning from June 2024 to May 2025, New Mexico has displayed a near-even split in its sources of electricity. Currently, low-carbon energy sources, such as wind and solar, contribute slightly more than half of the total electricity consumed, standing at about 52%. In contrast, fossil fuels, including gas and coal, account for about 47% of the electricity consumption. Within the low-carbon sector, wind energy alone provides a significant portion, almost 38%, with solar energy adding just over 13%. As for fossil fuels, natural gas leads with nearly 28%, followed by coal at roughly 19%. The balance between low-carbon and fossil fuels signifies New Mexico's potential for further expansion in clean electricity generation.
Is Electricity Growing in New Mexico?
Comparing the current electricity consumption per person in 2025, which is 18,127 kWh, with the historic high recorded in 2009 of 19,479 kWh, New Mexico has experienced a decline of 1,352 kWh per person. This stagnation in growth could be concerning when considering the rising demand for electricity due to increased technological and industrial needs. However, there’s a silver lining, as the state has seen an incremental rise in low-carbon electricity generation, reaching a new high of 9,428 kWh per person in 2025, up by 192 kWh from the previous record in 2024. This growth in the clean energy sector is a positive development, and it's imperative for New Mexico to further this trajectory to meet future electricity demands sustainably.
Suggestions
To further amplify low-carbon electricity generation, New Mexico can focus on enhancing its wind and solar infrastructure, which are already prominent contributors. The state can draw inspiration from regions with successful solar and wind ventures, such as Denmark, where wind energy accounts for 57% of electricity generation, and Nevada, boasting solar energy at 29%. Additionally, New Mexico should explore the potential of nuclear energy, inspired by successful nuclear deployment in states like New Hampshire, where nuclear energy provides over 50% of its electricity. This could provide a stable and abundant source of low-carbon energy. Adopting such strategies would potentially position New Mexico as a leader in green electricity generation.
History
Throughout the early 21st century, New Mexico witnessed noteworthy advancements in low-carbon energy generation, especially in wind and solar. Starting earnestly from 2005, wind energy began a steady rise, with notable growth spurts around the mid-2010s—between 2016 and 2018—and again in 2021 and 2022, where wind considerably amplified its contribution. Solar energy trailed behind initially but started gaining ground notably in 2017 and saw a significant boost in 2024. However, 2025 recorded a slight dip in wind energy production, signaling the need for strategic planning to maintain continuous growth in low-carbon generation. Ensuring consistent gains and overcoming declines will be vital for New Mexico in its pursuit of a fully clean electricity grid.