The 2025 Symposium and Stakeholder Forum brought together more than 200 (over 2 days) energy leaders, researchers, students, and community partners from across New Mexico for two days of discussion, coordination, and collaboration.

A major focus of the event was a statewide update on Phase I of the Comprehensive Energy Transition Strategy (CETS), led by the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD), alongside progress updates on the New Mexico Climate Action Plan (CAP), led by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED).

Each morning and early afternoon featured keynote talks, technical presentations, and panel discussions with speakers from state agencies, higher education, national laboratories, industry, Tribal Nations, and non-governmental organizations. Distinguished keynote speakers included Secretary Rob Black (New Mexico Economic Development Department), Secretary Melanie Kenderdine (EMNRD), Secretary James Kenney (NMED), and Dr. Arumugam Sundaram (Navajo Technical University).

Day 1 (November 18) topics included:

• Energy generation, transmission, and storage R&D in New Mexico

• Energy workforce development and education

• Energy initiatives on Tribal Nations

• New Mexico industries and utilities

Day 2 (November 19) topics included:

• Comprehensive Energy Transition Strategy (CETS) – Phase I overview

• Critical minerals and mining in the energy transition

• New Mexico Climate Action Plan (CAP) overview

• Carbon and methane management strategies

In the afternoons, the Fidel Center shifted into an interactive open forum with booths and poster sessions from research centers, industry groups, and energy associations. Attendees connected directly with researchers, students, state officials, and energy leaders to share ideas, explore partnerships, and learn about projects advancing New Mexico’s energy transition.

Overall, the event served as a statewide convening point for anyone working on or interested in New Mexico’s clean energy future, supporting stronger alignment across sectors and sparking new collaborations.