Solar Energy to Power Community Impact for Luna County

Luna County, New Mexico, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Schneider Electric to transform energy infrastructure across their portfolio of facilities.

For the first time, Luna County will harness onsite solar power to capture energy savings and reinvest those savings into the community. The project promises long-term financial and environmental benefits, including over $3.5 million in savings and a 35% reduction in energy use over the next 25 years.

A Sustainable Vision for Luna County

Luna County has partnered with Schneider Electric to modernize energy infrastructure by installing onsite renewable energy systems and a comprehensive set of energy efficiency upgrades— all fully owned and operated by the county.

The project will install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at three key locations—the Luna County Detention Center, where a 515 kW ground mounted solar array will be constructed, Starmax Entertainment Center, which will feature a 312 kW rooftop solar array, and the District Courthouse, which will receive 127 kW of solar parking canopies. The District Courthouse's solar array will also encompass two new EV charging pedestals for public use.

The project will also bring a range of energy efficiency improvements to county facilities. These upgrades willl both reduce electricity usage and enhance system reliability across essential public facilities. LED lighting upgrades will be implemented at four sites: the Detention Center, Starmax, the Mimbres Valley Learning Center, and the District Courthouse. An advanced building automation system (BAS) will also be added at the District Courthouse, which will allow the county to optimize the building's HVAC systems. All together, these upgrades will offset 70% of energy usage at the District Courthouse. 

This project is funded via an Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) with Schneider Electric, which will enable the county to reinvest approximately $3.5M from utility and operational savings over the next 25 years. Luna County will also fully fund its new solar energy arrays through state and federal incentives, including an estimated $2.3 million in Investment Tax Credit reimbursement and $675K in matching grants from the state of New Mexico.

Celebrating Progress: Project Kickoff Event at Starmax

Project construction began in early 2025, with completion anticipated by late summer 2026.

Luna County held a special event at the Starmax Entertainment Center in March 2026 to celebrate the beginning of construction on the building's solar array. Local leaders and community members gathered to mark this significant milestone. Chris Brice, County Manager, highlighted the alignment of the project with Luna County’s long-term goals for energy sustainability and economic growth.

“This partnership is a game-changer for Luna County. By leveraging solar and energy-efficient technology, we’re saving money and creating a legacy of responsible energy use for future generations. Schneider Electric brings the expertise to help us achieve our short-term and long-term goals.”

- Chris Brice, County Manager

Tammy Tolle, Vice President of Schneider Electric, also shared her excitement about the partnership, emphasizing Schneider Electric’s dedication to empowering communities like Luna County through innovative solutions.

“Luna County is leading by example, showing other regions the tangible benefits of sustainability. We are thrilled to partner with Luna County and look forward to helping public entities across New Mexico create similar impactful outcomes.”

- Tammy Tolle, Vice President at Schneider Electric.

Looking Ahead

This partnership demonstrates Luna County’s dedication to creating a healthier, more sustainable future for its residents. By leveraging Schneider Electric’s expertise and resources, the county is paving the way for cost-efficient, environmentally conscious infrastructure. As the construction phase progresses, the community can look forward to lower energy bills and more comfortable, modernized community facilities.

To learn more about how Schneider Electric helps local governments achieve their energy goals, visit our Government page.