Bill > SB209

This bill appropriates $250,000 from the state's general fund to the board of regents of New Mexico State University for the southwest technology development institute to fund projects related to smart grids, microgrids, and renewable energy development and demonstration, with funds available for fiscal year 2016 and beyond, and any remaining balances not reverting to the general fund at the end of a fiscal year. A "smart grid" refers to an modernized electrical grid that uses information and communication technology to gather and act on information about the behavior of suppliers and consumers in order to improve the efficiency, reliability, economics, and sustainability of the production and distribution of electricity. A "microgrid" is a localized grid with defined boundaries around its electrical loads and generation sources that can function in a grid-connected or island mode, meaning it can disconnect from the traditional grid and operate independently.