Consumer Protection Resources for Low-Income Service Organizations 

The New Mexico Community Solar Program prioritizes participation from low-income residents. The program mandates that each community solar project allocates at least 30% of its subscriptions for low-income customers and organizations.  

Partnering with Community Solar Companies

The New Mexico Community Solar Program prioritizes participation from low-income residents. The program mandates that each community solar project allocates at least 30% of its subscriptions for low-income customers and organizations.  

Community solar companies may partner with New Mexico-based nonprofits and community organizations on low-income enrollment. These partnerships may involve community solar companies seeking promotional assistance from organizations. In return, they may provide extra benefits or discounts to customers who enroll through these partner organizations or make direct donation to the partnering organization.

It is important that non-profits / community organizations understand the benefits and obligations of these partnerships.

Here are some key considerations when evaluating a potential partnership:

  1. Evaluate offers carefully: Take the time to thoroughly review any offers presented to the organization. Ensure they align with the organization’s mission and values.
  2. Prioritize the organizations’ members: Advocate for the best interests of the organization’s members. Confirm that any accepted offers bring tangible benefits to the individuals the organization serves.
  3. Seek expert guidance: Seek legal or financial advice for any questions about the community solar company’s terms and conditions. Expert guidance can help organizations to make informed decisions and safeguard members’ interests.
  4. Negotiate the terms: Non-profits and community organizations can play a valuable role in negotiating and securing the best offers for both the organization and its constituents.

Low-Income Working Group

The Program Administrator partnered with the Coalition of Sustainable Communities New Mexico (CSCNM) to conduct outreach to low-income service organizations in 2023 and 2024. CSCNM is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization dedicated to representing and serving New Mexico’s cities and counties.

CSCNM has established a low-income working group exclusively for organizations serving low-income households in New Mexico. This working group meets once a month. The meetings include any updates on the New Mexico Community Solar Program and give members time to ask any questions about the program.

Members can also provide feedback on the New Mexico Community Solar program directly to the Program Administrator. Insight from a variety of New Mexico based organizations is valuable in encouraging low-income participation in the program.

If your organization is interested in participating in this working group, we encourage you to indicate your interest using this form.

For more information and to engage with CSCNM’s initiatives, please visit their website or reach out to them directly at [email protected].

Consumer Protection Information for Individuals

As a community-based organization representing low-income residents, we encourage you to review our Consumer Protection Resources for Customers page. This page provides information on required program documents and consumer tips.  

The Program Administrator understands the importance of ensuring transparency, fairness, and protection for low-income participants. By familiarizing yourself with the information provided, you can make informed decisions and advocate for the best interests of your members.