eNewMexican

Let’s show New Mexico hospitality to Avangrid

ERNIE C’DEBACA Ernie C’deBaca is the president and CEO of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce.

The economic forum was in person, with people greeting one another with hugs and handshakes. The speaker was my former leader — Public Service Company of New Mexico’s CEO Pat Vincent-Collawn, who spoke about the many actions PNM has taken during the pandemic and about the merger with Avangrid.

As a former executive at PNM and current president and CEO of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, I understand the benefits and am a staunch supporter of the merger with Avangrid. At the Hispano Chamber, we focus on community, culture and commerce. This merger enhances each of those meaningful words for us here in New Mexico.

This merger brings to the communities it serves $6 million for customers behind on their bill due to COVID-19, $15 million for low-income energy efficiency assistance and $50 million in customer bill discounts over three years. It also recognizes our cultures by providing $12.5 million to the Four Corners region affected by coal plant closures, which helps many displaced Navajo workers find good jobs and $2 million to improve access to electricity for low-income rural New Mexicans, the majority of which are Hispanic.

Finally, it supports commerce with $7.5 million in economic development funding and 150 new full-time jobs added to New Mexico over three years, valued conservatively between $150 million and $200 million in economic benefits.

This merger brings not only a world leader in renewable energy, and one that will transform New Mexico’s renewable potential, but also a company that reflects the values of our state. Avangrid is a three-time honoree as one of the world’s most ethical companies. Avangrid was recognized on the annual Forbes Just 100, a list of America’s best corporate citizens, and ranked No. 1 within the utility industry for its commitment to the environment and the communities it serves.

New Mexico is on the national radar with our recent business announcements including Netflix, Amazon, Intel ... and now Avangrid. Let’s welcome them and show them the New Mexico hospitality we are known for.

OPINION

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2021-06-20T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-06-20T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://enewmexican.com/article/281732682444505

Santa Fe New Mexican