New Mexico utility PNM has secured regulatory approval to acquire the Western Spirit transmission project from its developers.
An affiliate of Pattern Energy Group 2 along with the New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority (NM RETA) are building capacity additions to help strengthen the existing PNM system and accommodate 800MW of new wind energy.
Following approval from the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission, PNM will acquire the $285m project upon completion of construction in 2021.
PNM Resources chief executive Pat Vincent-Collawn said: “We are pleased that this project has received the required regulatory approvals and continues to move forward.
“We remain proud to be part of this project with Pattern and NM RETA and to expand our transmission grid in support of renewable investments that bring new construction jobs and tax revenues to the state and to improve our ability to make New Mexico a leader in clean energy.”