August 2024 Energy Works Newsletter - pnmprod
Energy Works - September 2024
![Why Choose an Electric Vehicle Why Choose an Electric Vehicle](/documents/28767612/45402011/09-2024-01.jpg/ae238a2e-6f75-5ef9-6493-0a7e3f615c8f?t=1724358277531)
Why Choose an Electric Vehicle
Come see us at the 3rd Annual Electric Car Show on the Plaza in Santa Fe!
See what EVs are available and talk to owners to see what life with an EV is like!
When: Saturday, October 5th, 2024 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where: 63 Lincoln Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87501
The sticker price of EVs is falling every year and on average cost just $2,800 more than a new gas-powered vehicle. See https://www.nrdc.org/stories/electric-vs-gas-cars-it-cheaper-drive-ev.
Public charging availability across New Mexico is on the rise. You can find available charging throughout the state by visiting https://www.dot.nm.gov/electrifying-new-mexico/?ev=charging or www.newmexico.org/plan/charging-stations.
EVs are low maintenance, compared to gas vehicles requiring only wiper fluid and tire rotation regularly. Regenerative braking helps reduce wear on brake pads allowing more time between replacements.
Home charging is simple! A Level 1 charger allows you to slow charge using a regular 3-prong outlet, without the need for a panel upgrade. If you'd like a faster charge, Level 2 chargers can fully charge your EV overnight. Level 2 chargers may require an electrical upgrade prior to installation, and PNM has rebates available for the purchase and installation of a qualified EV charger.
The average daily commute for New Mexicans is about 38 miles, so you can easily travel on an overnight charge at home.
For information about PNM rebates for Level 2 chargers and installation, visit ev.PNM.com
![Budget Billing Budget Billing](/documents/28767612/45402011/09-2024-02.jpg/933f8e77-248e-db50-2cd3-87028d7ab382?t=1724358277879)
Budget Billing
Budget Billing gives you more predictable energy bills by balancing seasonal highs and lows, taking the guesswork out of your monthly bill. Once signed up, you'll pay the same amount every month - making budgeting and planning much easier.
You still pay for the energy you use, but your total costs are spread evenly throughout the year. Budget Billing amounts are evaluated twice a year, usually in February and August, and may go up or down based on your actual usage and updated energy costs.
![Protect yourself from copper theft Protect yourself from copper theft](/documents/28767612/45402011/09-2024-03.jpg/5344c2b4-735a-62c8-f6ec-e6a66ac8068c?t=1724358278075)
Protect yourself from copper theft
September is PNM Copper Theft Awareness Month
Copper theft is an ongoing issue for businesses, residents, and utilities every year. Copper theft is illegal, costs customers thousands of dollars to replace, and it also comes with a serious safety hazard.
If you notice any electrical equipment or facility that has been tampered with by thieves, do not touch the transformer or meter, or any wires that may be sticking out as they may be energized. Even if there are no sparks, the wires may still be energized and are a serious safety hazard and can be deadly. Call PNM at 888-DIAL-PNM so we can send a crew to make the area safe.
If you are a business owner, there are protective devices you can install that barricade the doors to transformers and meters which cover the locks and handles to deter access.
![PNM files Rate Request](/documents/28767612/45402011/09-2024-04.jpg/5e7fc250-49cd-fa41-8820-fc8db3aeaa64?t=1724358278268)
PNM files Rate Request
PNM filed the 2025 Rate Request with the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (Case No. 24-00089-UT).
Visit our site if you want more information on the PNM 2025 Rate Request, including the customer notice.
![Learn where your energy dollars are going Hot Air Balloon Safety](/documents/28767612/45402011/09-2024-05.jpg/88ae30ec-a159-696c-d8a6-31193db7e257?t=1724358278509)
Hot Air Balloon Safety
As October approaches, hot air balloons will soon fill our skies. It is part of what makes New Mexico so special. Here are some tips to ensure you enjoy the balloon fiesta safely.
If a balloon hits a power line, pole, or other electrical equipment, do not go near it or touch it. Call 911, then call PNM at 888-DIAL-PNM.
Do not touch a balloon wrapped in a power line. Electricity seeks the nearest path to ground, which means an energized line that poses no danger to a balloon hanging on one wire could become deadly for everyone involved if a single onlooker touches the ground and the balloon or a tether at the same time.
When driving, pull over safely to view the balloons in the sky.
How PNM responds:
PNM line crews are trained and experienced in assisting balloons entangled in poles and wires and we work closely with our first responders to make sure everyone is on the same page. Once we know the exact location of the incident:
- PNM crews determine the best approach to making the scene safe for first responders.
- Once the scene is safe, first responders can provide rescue/first aid, if required, to balloon occupants
- Once everyone is safe, PNM crews will remove the balloon and perform any necessary repairs to the power lines or equipment.
Stay away and call 911, then call PNM at 888-DIAL-PNM.