Kit Carson Electric Cooperative (KCEC) reaffirmed its commitment Tuesday (Oct. 7) to a federally supported microgrid initiative designed to strengthen northern New Mexico’s energy resilience, wildfire mitigation, and public safety.
The project, part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, received $23 million in 2023 — $15.4 million in federal funding and $7.7 million from KCEC — to enhance grid reliability across the region. Despite recent uncertainty about federal support, KCEC says it is moving forward with preparations to protect communities from extreme weather events and wildfires, which remain the most significant threat to its infrastructure.
“This project is about more than energy; it is about protecting lives, safeguarding our communities, and ensuring the future of northern New Mexico,” said Luis A. Reyes, CEO of KCEC. “Reliable electricity is essential for public safety, for families who rely on medical equipment, for those who work and study from home, and for every member who depends on us.”
KCEC has invested approximately $4.6 million in battery energy storage systems (BESS) and microgrid equipment including weather stations, AI Smart Edge devices, and grid monitoring software. The cooperative has also secured land in Penasco, Taos Ski Valley, and El Rito West for battery installations and hired tax consultants to identify applicable credits.
The microgrid project aims to maintain local energy supply during wildfire-related power shutoffs. This will reduce fire ignition risks while keeping critical facilities — including fire stations, emergency shelters, and first responder bases — operational. It also addresses urgent public health needs by ensuring uninterrupted electricity for members who rely on medical devices, oxygen equipment, dialysis machines, and refrigerated medication.
Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with completion expected by January 2027. Engineering is already 60 percent complete. KCEC officials say the initiative will modernize the cooperative’s grid, integrate renewable energy, and provide long-term reliability for residents, small businesses, and remote workers.
KCEC has not received official notice of any federal funding cancellation and plans to continue exploring options to secure financial support for the project. Reyes emphasized that the DOE’s investment validates the cooperative’s vision and commitment to a resilient, modern energy system.
