New Mexico Grid Modernization
Synapse provided technical assistance and expert testimony on behalf of the New Mexico Department of Justice (formally the New Mexico Attorney General) regarding the grid modernization plans of El Paso Electric Company, Southwestern Public Service Company, and Public Service Company of New Mexico.
Synapse reviewed the methodologies, assumptions, and benefit-cost tests included in the plans. Synapse also assessed the extent to which the proposed plans meet the grid modernization goals of the state, support incorporation of distributed energy resources, and provide new programs and innovative rate design to customers.
Synapse also supported the New Mexico Department of Justice with developing comments on the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement the grid modernization statute. The comments provided recommendations on the timing and content of utility grid modernization plans, the use of benefit cost analysis versus least-cost best fit, annual reporting, and performance metrics.