NM HM38

Requests the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department to convene a working group with electric utilities and nonprofit organizations to design a pilot project for portable solar generation devices in low-income households

Pilot project would install plug-in or balcony solar systems in 5-10 low-income households to evaluate economic benefits, safety, and grid impacts

Addresses energy insecurity where low-income households below the federal poverty line spend 16-30% of income on energy costs compared to the state average of 3%

Portable solar devices eliminate 50-65% of traditional rooftop solar costs by avoiding marketing, installation labor, permitting, and overhead expenses

Working group must present findings and recommendations to the interim legislative committee on energy and natural resources by November 1, 2026