New Mexico’s energy future must be built on reliability and affordability. As the state continues to carry out the Energy Transition Act, I believe emerging energy technologies should play a larger role in meeting its goals. A transition that relies too heavily on intermittent power, without enough steady generation, puts the grid and ratepayers at risk. Adding firm, dependable energy sources into the framework of the ETA is a responsible way to strengthen the system.

Technologies like small modular nuclear reactors, advanced fission systems, and future fusion power offer something the grid increasingly needs: electricity that is available around the clock. These systems can provide consistent power regardless of weather or time of day, helping stabilize the grid as other sources fluctuate. Incorporating these technologies into the state’s long-term energy planning would improve reliability while still aligning with emissions goals. Currently several companies across New Mexico are building these advanced power systems but they cannot be tested or deployed in our state.

Small modular reactors are especially promising. They are designed to be much safer, more flexible, and easier to scale than traditional nuclear plants. Their size allows them to be placed closer to demand centers, reducing stress on transmission lines and lowering the risk of outages. Other states are already studying and deploying these systems as part of their reliability planning, and New Mexico should be doing the same.

Including emerging energy in the Energy Transition Act will also support affordability. A grid with enough steady power reduces price swings, emergency purchases from other states, and costly short-term fixes. Over time, that stability helps keep utility bills more predictable for families and businesses. Reliability and cost control should be treated as core goals of the transition, not afterthoughts.

There is also a workforce and economic benefit. Advanced energy projects require skilled workers in engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance. By welcoming these technologies into our state’s energy framework, New Mexico can attract private investment, research partnerships, and high-paying jobs, including in rural areas that already support energy development.

My approach is to strengthen our state’s energy policy by making it more balanced and realistic. Adding emerging energy technologies into state statute helps protect reliability, manage costs, and keep options open as demand grows. A successful energy policy is one that works in the real world, keeps power dependable, and gives New Mexico the flexibility to meet future needs without sacrificing stability.