GINM CEO Shauna Kastle, Environment Secretary James Kenney, City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, GINM COO Frank Holland, City Councilor Brook Bassan, and GINM CFO Tom Downey cut the ribbon for two Freightliner eCascadia semi-tractors. Courtesy/GINM
GINM News:
ALBUQUERQUE — Goodwill Industries of New Mexico (GINM) is blazing the sustainability trail with its purchase of two Freightliner eCascadia semi-tractors.
The electric tractors are 100 percent electric with zero carbon emissions – and the first of their kind in New Mexico. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, Environment Department Cabinet James Kenney, and GINM unveiled the semi-tractors recently with a ribbon cutting event.
“Environmental sustainability has long been part of the mission of our organization,” said CEO and President Shauna Kastle of Goodwill Industries of New Mexico. “Our investment in electric semi-tractors underscores our commitment to our community and state to be environmentally responsible.”
GINM partnered with the New Mexico’s Environment Department (NMED) to apply for a grant through the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA). The grant began at the federal level and was passed through the State of New Mexico. The grant covered 45 percent of the approximate $1 million purchase. GINM funded the additional portion of the purchase price.
The Environment Department has multiple funding streams available in grants and loans that can assist with the energy transition for non-profit organizations, private entities, and municipal governments. NMED sets an annual goal of infusing $65M in New Mexico communities through grants and loans. Last year, NMED far exceeded this goal by investing $189M in communities.
“The Environment Department and Goodwill Industries are investing in a low carbon future,” Environment Secretary James Kenney said. “We are committed to helping the private and public sector reach their climate goals.”
“We are grateful to the State and for the assistance of Neal Butt of the New Mexico Environment Department who was instrumental in making this happen,” Tom Downey said, Chief Financial Officer of GINM.
The Public Service Company of New Mexico and Wagner Equipment installed the transformers and charging station.
eCascadia semi-tractors have a range of 230 miles before they need to be recharged. They recharge in approximately 90 minutes. They have a tighter turning radius than most semi-tractors, are very quiet, and have zero-emissions.
Goodwill Industries of New Mexico is much more than a thrift store. GINM has served New Mexicans for 83 years as a non-profit service provider facilitating more than 10 free programs. GINM provides job development, skills training, and case management in all 33 counites of the state. In 2023, Goodwill served 21,538 New Mexicans and placed 1,556 individuals into community-based employment.