A new bill aimed at providing tax credits for backup power generation has garnered support from local officials and utility companies in New Mexico. House Bill 76, discussed during a recent meeting of the New Mexico Legislature, seeks to address the challenges faced by residents during power outages, particularly those relying on medical equipment.

The bill proposes a tax credit for individuals who invest in emergency power generation systems, which will be available for a decade. This initiative comes in response to recent wildfires in Lincoln County, such as the Gavilan Fire and the Salt Fork Fire, which severely damaged power infrastructure and led to significant outages. The legislation aims to alleviate the burden on emergency services, especially for residents dependent on durable medical equipment like home dialysis machines and oxygen generators.

Supporters of the bill, including representatives from the Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM), emphasized its importance for vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and those with medical conditions. PNM highlighted their commitment to providing reliable power and ensuring that residents are cared for during outages.

The bill will be managed by the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, which will issue vouchers for those eligible for the tax credit, contingent on the program meeting a threshold of $5 million annually.

As discussions continue, the bill represents a proactive step towards enhancing community resilience against power disruptions, ensuring that essential services remain accessible to those in need. The committee's support reflects a growing recognition of the importance of reliable energy sources in safeguarding public health and safety.