EMNRD News:

SANTA FE — The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department is deploying “energy coaches” to guide New Mexicans through the process of applying for the state’s array of energy-efficiency tax credit and rebate programs.

EMNRD’s Energy Conservation and Management Division (ECAM) currently administers more than 30 tax credits and rebates offering savings on items ranging from solar energy systems to electric vehicles and energy-efficient home appliances. There also are programs that can help businesses, non-profit organizations and local and Tribal governments reduce energy costs.

Several programs require detailed application processes, thus the need for energy coaches.

“Our goal is to make it easy for every New Mexican to find, apply for and take advantage of these programs that provide access to cleaner, more affordable energy,” said ECAM Director Rebecca “Puck” Stair. “The energy coaches are trusted guides—real humans who can get on the phone to explain how each program works, answer questions, and walk New Mexicans toward the next step to lower energy costs.” 

The coaches’ services, which are free to the public, can include one-on-one support to simplify the process of identifying incentives, completing applications and planning energy upgrades.

In addition to hiring energy coaches, ECAM has updated its website to make it easier for people to find information about energy-saving programs on their own.  The updated CleanEnergy.nm.gov includes expanded content, clearer paths for finding information on specific programs and links for connecting with an energy coach.

Meet an energy coach in this video on the energy-saving incentive programs.