FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 14, 2017
Contact: Matt Baca (505) 270-7148
Albuquerque, NM – This afternoon, Attorney General Hector Balderas announced that he has reached an agreement with Southwestern Public Service Company, Western Resources
Associates and Collation for Clean Affordable Energy on a $57 million jobs package as part of the Sagamore Wind Project. The agreement will foster and expand skilled construction and environmental job opportunities throughout the State. The jobs package that was agreed to and filed today will help to develop local, clean energy businesses and provide opportunities for New Mexico’s from New Mexico’s abundant renewable resources.
“This agreement will not only increase clean energy production in New Mexico, but will increase our skilled labor for the development of renewable energy so that New Mexico business are truly positioned to become a leader in renewable energy development,” said Attorney General Hector Balderas. “This investment means that real dollars will go to New Mexico businesses, and that New Mexicans will have real opportunities for prosperity as we work to bring clean, affordable energy to our state”
This type of cooperation between Utilities, environmental advocates and Office of the Attorney General will bring substantial business and employment opportunities to rural New Mexico. The jobs package agreement also provides for an independent monitor who will report to the parties in real time on the hiring of local contractors and employees. The agreement also helps with training for jobs that are targeted to environmental projects and to create a platform for the development of these types of jobs here in New Mexico.
Another focus of the job’s package is the creation of green jobs that are higher paying and require specific skills that resident business in New Mexico could provide and build a workforce around. The agreement will provide for training in wind specific programs by including grants to local community college wind energy programs.
A copy of the signed agreement is attached.
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