Consumer Protection Resources for Customers

This page has important information for New Mexico customers considering signing up for Community Solar. Enrolling in Community Solar is a great way to help New Mexico’s transition to clean energy and support the solar workforce! Most customers will see savings after enrolling in community solar. Learn more about how to make sure you save money with community solar.

Consumer Tips

There are multiple companies offering community solar subscriptions in New Mexico. Each provider, referred to as a Community Solar Subscription Manager, has a unique community solar contract. Research multiple Subscription Managers before enrolling, so that you can find the best offer for your needs.

Before signing a contract, make sure that you understand the following:

  • Contract length: How long is the contract? Does the contract automatically renew at any point?
  • Savings level: What percent discount will you receive on the energy generated by your subscription?
  • Credit check: Will the Subscription Manager conduct a credit check? Will this credit check show up on credit reports?
  • Impact on your electric bill: Some utility programs may change how much money you save by enrolling in community solar. If you are enrolled in budget billing, or Time of Use pricing, you may want to contact your utility before enrolling in community solar to make sure that you will see the full benefit of the community solar savings on your electric utility bill.
  • Billing options: Does the Subscription Manager offer multiple ways to pay your bill? Some providers may require that customers enroll in automatic payments.
  • Cancellation terms: What happens if you decide to cancel? How long in advance do you need to notify your Subscription Manager? Are there any fees for cancelling your subscription early?
  • Transferring your Subscription: Can you continue your subscription at a new address if you move?
  • Estimated start date: When will you start to receive discounts by participating in community solar? This will vary depending on whether the community solar project is complete, and your billing cycle.

Program Documents

Community solar companies must provide you with the following three documents before signing a community solar contract.

Program Flyer

The Program Flyer provides an overview of Community Solar. The Flyer includes visual explanations of community solar, consumer tips, and information for low-income customers.

Subscriber Disclosure and Consent Form

The Subscriber Disclosure and Consent Form summarizes important information about the community solar contract and necessary information sharing between your Subscription Manager and your utility company. The Subscriber Disclosure and Consent Form includes information about the community solar project, savings, size of your subscription, cancellation terms, and more.

 

Disclosure Form Appendix

The Disclosure Form Appendix explains the different types of companies that are involved in your community solar subscription and provides you with contact information for any questions you may have about your subscription.

Concerns?

If you have any concerns or questions regarding your community solar subscription or any sales activities, please contact the New Mexico Community Solar Program Administrator at [email protected] or (877) 794-0109. Your feedback helps us ensure that companies are playing by the rules!

It is important to note that a Community Solar Subscriber Agreement is a contract between you and the Subscriber Organization or Subscription Manager. As the Program Administrator, we are not a party to the contract and therefore cannot offer advice on the specific terms outlined within it.