key term - Energy Transition Act

Definition

The Energy Transition Act is a legislative framework enacted in New Mexico aimed at transforming the state's energy sector towards renewable energy sources. It sets ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the use of clean energy, specifically targeting a transition to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2045. This act is crucial in addressing climate change and its impact on New Mexico's environment, promoting sustainable practices and economic growth through green energy initiatives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Energy Transition Act mandates that New Mexico must achieve 50% renewable energy by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
2. It emphasizes the need for a just transition, ensuring that communities reliant on fossil fuel industries are supported during the shift to renewable energy.
3. The act aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% from 2005 levels by the year 2030.
4. Implementation of the Energy Transition Act is expected to create thousands of jobs in the renewable energy sector across New Mexico.
5. The act supports various clean energy technologies, including solar, wind, and energy storage systems, to diversify the state's energy portfolio.

Review Questions

• How does the Energy Transition Act specifically address climate change impacts in New Mexico?
  • The Energy Transition Act directly addresses climate change impacts in New Mexico by setting clear goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources. By mandating a shift to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2045, it aims to mitigate the effects of climate change on the environment and public health. The act encourages sustainable practices and economic growth while recognizing the need for adaptation strategies to protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities affected by climate change.
• Evaluate the potential economic benefits of implementing the Energy Transition Act for New Mexico's workforce.
  • Implementing the Energy Transition Act presents significant economic benefits for New Mexico's workforce through job creation in the renewable energy sector. As the state shifts towards clean energy sources, it is estimated that thousands of new jobs will be generated in areas such as solar and wind energy production, installation, and maintenance. Additionally, the act promotes workforce development initiatives aimed at retraining individuals from fossil fuel industries, ensuring a just transition that minimizes job losses while fostering economic resilience in a changing energy landscape.
• Synthesize how the goals of the Energy Transition Act can influence environmental policies beyond New Mexico's borders.
  • The goals of the Energy Transition Act can significantly influence environmental policies beyond New Mexico's borders by serving as a model for other states aiming to combat climate change. As New Mexico commits to ambitious targets for renewable energy and emission reductions, it may inspire neighboring states and even federal policymakers to adopt similar frameworks that prioritize sustainability. The act showcases the viability of transitioning to a green economy, potentially leading to cooperative regional efforts in clean energy initiatives and policies that foster widespread adoption of renewable technologies across various jurisdictions.

Related terms

Renewable Energy: Energy generated from natural resources that are replenished naturally, such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to global warming; major sources include fossil fuels and industrial processes.

Carbon Neutrality: Achieving a balance between the carbon emitted and the carbon removed from the atmosphere, often through offsetting emissions with renewable energy.