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Schneider Electric urges Roosevelt County to pursue solar projects before July 4 tax‑credit deadline
Summary
Representatives from Schneider Electric asked the commission for a no‑cost business‑case audit and a signed letter of interest so the county can pursue federal investment tax credits and New Mexico solar grants; presenters warned a July 4 sunset on ITC adders creates a tight procurement timeline.
Schneider Electric representatives Robert Perez and Tracy presented an overview of energy‑efficiency and solar options for Roosevelt County and asked the board to authorize a no‑cost business‑case audit by signing a nonbinding letter of interest.
Perez said Schneider would perform an initial audit at no cost to the county and present a business case showing potential savings, eligible grants and estimated project costs. He described the company’s approach as a ‘‘capital recovery and reinvestment’’ program that can identify energy conservation measures — from lighting retrofits to rooftop, carport or ground‑mounted solar — and help the county access funding, including a federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) that presenters said currently carries adders eligible to cover up to 50% of a community’s solar investment.
Tracy, identified as Schneider’s public partnership lead, described the different solar delivery options and cited case studies in nearby counties. The presenters said common results include 15–40% reductions in energy consumption from efficiency work and building‑level solar installations that can offset 60–70% of a meter’s usage for certain facilities. They also said Schneider offers long‑term performance guarantees and third‑party certification to support ITC compliance.
Commissioners asked about timelines and payback. Perez said the company could perform an on‑site audit in two days and aimed to be under contract by mid‑May to meet ITC safe‑harbor requirements ahead of a July 4 sunset on certain adders; some early procurement (panels or binding steps) may be needed to qualify. Perez asked the commission to sign a one‑page letter of interest granting site access for the audit at no cost and without obligation, so Schneider could return with specific numbers and a funding roadmap.
The presentation did not obligate the county to proceed with any project. Commissioners expressed interest in rooftop and carport installations rather than using productive farmland. Staff and advisors will coordinate the logistics of a potential audit if the board elects to sign the letter.
What’s next: Schneider asked the county for a signed letter of interest and offered to return with a detailed business case; commissioners discussed options and a possible future agenda item to consider an audit request.
