La Bajada ENERGY PROJECT OVERVIEW

Size

50 Megawatts (MW) of solar and 50 Megawatts (MW) of energy storage.

Location

Santa Fe County, New Mexico. The power will be transmitted to an on-site transmission site owned by PNM.

Power generation

The project will produce enough energy to power the equivalent of the annual electricity consumption of 17,000 homes.

Environmental Benefits

Approximately 80,011 metric tons of CO2 offset per year.

Economic Benefits

Supporting an average of 220 jobs per year during construction and generating $51 million in labor income from direct and induced jobs. Over construction and the project’s expected life, it is projected to generate approximately $12.8 million in tax revenue for Santa Fe County and $14.3 million for the State of New Mexico.

Project Life

The lifespan of La Bajada Solar is projected to be 35 years.

La Bajada ENERGY PROPOSED PROJECT TIMELINE

Spring 2028 proposed start of construction (contingent on PNM schedule).

LA BAJADA ENERGY - Project maps

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What chemistry will be used for the batteries?
The project is proposed to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry, which is known for its strong thermal stability and favorable safety characteristics. According to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), LFP batteries have a higher temperature threshold for thermal runaway than some other lithium-ion battery chemistries, making them less susceptible to thermal runaway. LFP technology was selected with safety as a key consideration, alongside comprehensive system design and safety measures. Learn more about LFP batteries here: https://teams.public.onecdn.static.microsoft/evergreen-assets/safelinks/2/atp-safelinks.html.
How is the site designed to mitigate battery fires?

The project will incorporate multiple fire-safety measures, including a dedicated on-site water tank for emergency use. Exus will also develop an Emergency Response Plan and Hazard Mitigation Analysis in coordination with Santa Fe County and the Fire Marshal.​

WILL OUR ENERGY BILLS BE IMPACTED BY THIS PROJECT?

The project does not set or control local electricity rates. Electric bills are determined by the local utility and energy regulatory process. This project will add new energy generation to the grid, helping support a more reliable, diversified energy supply over time.

Do solar panels impact human health?
Solar panels do not negatively impact human health. During manufacturing, solar panels go through rigorous quality control measures to guarantee proper and safe function. In addition, solar panels do not produce any toxic emissions during operations. Learn more here: PV Toxicity Factsheet.
Will the project utilize water and how will it be maintained?

 

We recognize that water is an important and limited resource in the region, and conserving local water supplies is a priority in the project’s design. Water use is expected to be limited primarily to dust control during construction, with reclaimed water used where feasible. No on-site water well is planned, and the facility is not expected to use water as part of normal operations or maintenance. A dedicated water tank will be kept on site specifically to support emergency response if needed.

 

How will wildlife in the area be impacted?
We understand the concern about wildlife, especially among residents who know the land and the animals that move through it. The project design preserves natural features such as streams, wetlands, and existing habitat areas – maintaining them as interior corridors that allow wildlife movement. 
Can solar panels be recycled?
Yes, solar panels can be recycled. When the project is at the end of its life, all components will be properly handled through a decommissioning plan. La Bajada includes recycling of materials, such as concrete and steel, in its decommissioning plan. Learn more here: ACP-Solar-Recycling-Disposal_Fact-Sheet.pdf.
Is the project permitted?
The project is currently progressing through Santa Fe County’s conditional use permitting process.
Will the project impact nearby property values?

Available data does not show consistent negative impacts to nearby property values, particularly when projects are properly sited, screened, and maintained. Santa Fe County has taken proactive steps to protect community interests. The Santa Fe County SLDC requires setbacks, screening, and visual buffers that help minimize impacts and maintain compatibility with surrounding properties.

AddiTIONAL RESOURCES

Solar Panels in Your Community

Bajada Energy Project in Santa Fe Fiscal Impact Assessment (FIA) 

Trifold Pamphlet from Neighborhood Meeting Open House