Solar Energy is a rapidly growing part of New Mexico’s energy portfolio, with the state emerging as a leader in solar energy development, leveraging its abundant sunlight and supportive policies. 

Solar photovoltaic (PV) production has shown steady and substantial growth from 2008 to 2022, with installed capacity increasing from modest levels to 855.7 MW in 2022 and reaching 2,854 MW in 2024.

While New Mexico does not yet have utility-scale concentrated solar power (CSP) facilities, it is home to the National Solar Thermal Test Facility (NSTTF) at Sandia National Laboratories, the only facility in the U.S. capable of testing large-scale CSP systems. The NSTTF supports research on solar thermal energy storage and high-temperature systems, contributing to long-term CSP viability.

With continued policy support, New Mexico’s solar PV capacity and generation are expected to keep growing, reinforcing the state’s role in the national clean energy transition.