US New Mexico officials recently announced the first phase of a $25 million solar investment in Albuquerque.
Announced by Al Kukki Mayor Tim Keller, City Councillor Pat Davis, New Mexico State Department of the Environment, Municipal Development Department and US Senator Martin Heinrich Office - will install $5.2 million worth of solar panels for 12 buildings.
Funding for these projects comes from Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBS), a federal program designed to fund renewable energy projects. According to estimates by the City of New York, these bonds have almost no interest and will save energy costs in 20 years. Currently, only 3% of Albuquerque's energy comes from renewable sources.
Keller said: 'Utilizing clean energy to power our cities is an incredible opportunity. We need to continue to take steps to become a net zero city, reduce our carbon footprint, and create local jobs for the industry.'
The first phase of the project will include fire stations, libraries, police colleges and forensic laboratories, community centers and golf courses. These projects will begin in late July and will be completed in September. The library project will be in November. Start, will be completed in February next year.
Heinrich said: 'I am proud to ensure that funds flow into renewable energy projects, seeing Albuquerque take the lead in transforming into a renewable energy city. This will create new jobs. If we continue this investment, with rich wind energy and Solar resources, New Mexico will be the center of the clean energy economy.'
