New Mexico on Tuesday adopted a comprehensive set of rules on greenhouse gas emissions, clearing the way for the state to participate in the regional carbon-trading market being established under the Western Climate Initiative (WCI)
In a 4-3 vote, the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board (EIB) approved the measure, which clean energy advocates say will attract major investments in the state’s economy.
“This will bring in the investment cash for New Mexico’s clean energy sector at a time when our economy really needs the boost,” said Jim Graham, a general contractor in the Las Cruces area. “In spite of the unfounded rhetoric we’ve been hearing from the opposition, this new rule is a jobs creator.”
The new policy applies to stationary sources that emit at least 25,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide, mainly coal- and gas-fired power plants, and oil and gas operations. Those facilities will be required to reduce their emissions by 2% per year.
“I applaud the board’s leadership and their willingness to take a stand for New Mexico’s future,” said New Mexico Environment Department Secretary Ron Curry. “This is a great opportunity to promote the state’s clean energy economy by reducing dangerous greenhouse gas emissions.”
Election Could Change Everything
Despite the EIB vote, the election of Republican Susana Martinez to governor in New Mexico, puts the state’s participation in the WCI carbon market in question. Republican governors in Utah and Arizona have pulled their states out of the program over the last year, as resistance to cap-and-trade programs has grown in the conservative ranks of the party.
On her campaign website, Martinez states that "excessive regulations force jobs out of New Mexico."
New Mexico is one of at least 10 states that flipped from a Democrat governor to Republican in Tuesday’s elections. Read full coverage at the linnk below.
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