KWES NewsWest 9 / Midland, Odessa, Big Spring, TX: newswest9.com | Richardson: NM has earned clean energy title

Richardson: NM has earned clean energy title

Associated Press - January 19, 2010 3:35 PM ET

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Gov. Bill Richardson says he and the Legislature have worked to make New Mexico the Clean Energy State and that cooperation needs to continue.

Richardson recited a list of the state's accomplishments over the past seven years, including a renewable energy standard for utilities, the creation of a renewable energy transmission authority and a package of clean energy tax incentives.

This year, the governor says he wants to double the incentive for solar electricity producers that locate in New Mexico.

Richardson also is taking aim at the state's coal-fired power plants. He's proposing legislation that would punish those that repeatedly violate air quality standards.

He also wants a cap and trade bill to reduce the pollution blamed for causing global warming.

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