The Los Alamos County Board of Public Utilities convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss the county's Climate Action Plan and its implications for energy efficiency and electrification initiatives. The meeting focused on three scenarios for electric vehicle (EV) adoption and building electrification, aiming to align with the county's sustainability goals.

The first agenda item presented a comprehensive overview of the Climate Action Plan, which outlines ambitious targets for EV adoption and building electrification by 2055. The plan anticipates a significant increase in electric vehicle usage, alongside a push for home and commercial building electrification. This includes transitioning to electric water heating, space heating, and cooking appliances. The discussion highlighted the potential for a 20% improvement in energy efficiency through enhanced building standards, which would involve upgrades such as better insulation and more efficient HVAC systems.

The second scenario discussed was more conservative, reflecting current policies. It projected that by 2055, approximately half of homes would electrify their appliances, with a quarter adopting solar energy and 10% incorporating battery storage systems. The third scenario, termed "natural behavior," assumed no government intervention, predicting a lower adoption rate of electrification and energy efficiency upgrades, consistent with historical trends in New Mexico.

A key point of clarification arose during the meeting regarding the terminology used to describe building efficiency improvements. Board members emphasized the importance of accurately labeling the expected 20% increase in energy efficiency, which encompasses various upgrades to reduce energy waste in homes and businesses.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the importance of understanding how residents charge their electric vehicles, which will be a critical factor in the successful implementation of the Climate Action Plan. The board plans to continue discussions on these topics in future sessions, aiming to refine strategies that promote sustainability and energy efficiency in Los Alamos County.