PNM to expand solar power to meet standards

State regulators have approved PNM's renewable energy procurement plan for 2013.

PNM, the largest electric utility in New Mexico, says it plans to double its amount of solar power with new and expanded arrays capable of producing 20 megawatts of electricity. It also plans to enter into a 20-year contract to purchase 10 megawatts of geothermal power from a plant southwest of Lordsburg. 

The procurement plan is aimed at helping the utility meet New Mexico's portfolio standards, which call for utilities to get at least 10 percent of their electricity from renewable sources. That will go up to 20 percent by 2020. 

PNM to expand solar power to meet standards