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BPU backs county’s application for state grid-resiliency grant to rebuild aging EA‑4 line
Summary
County staff told the board the EA‑4 overhead line that supplies wastewater, well fields and a backup to North Mesa is in poor condition and estimated to cost over $3 million to rebuild; the board voted to recommend staff apply for New Mexico’s grid resiliency grant funds.
County utilities staff told the Board of Public Utilities on Oct. 22 they will apply for New Mexico grid-resiliency grant funds to rebuild the EA‑4 overhead electric line, a long, aging line that serves critical infrastructure including the wastewater treatment plant and the Guaje well fields.
"We were made aware that the Department of Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources was awarded $70,000 by the state legislature for grid resiliency grants," the presenting staff member said and explained the county intends to submit its application during the next monthly rolling window. Staff said the EA‑4 line replacement construction cost is estimated to be in excess of $3,000,000 and that the county adjusted the application to show coordination with San Ildefonso Pueblo, which is also pursuing upgrades to allow renewable generation to feed into the same line.
The board voted to recommend staff apply for the grant and forward the application to County Council for consideration. Staff said the application includes a community-benefits plan and financial matrix and that the county will refine language and coordinate with senior staff and stakeholders before submission. No vote tally of Council was required at this meeting; the board’s motion advanced the request to Council.
