More places to zap up are in the works.
The state’s Construction Industries Commission, part of the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department (NMRLD), voted last week to require all new homes and businesses to be able to charge electric vehicles.
In a news release, the commission said the updated codes align with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s $55 million legislative budget request to launch a widespread EV charging network.
“The ability to charge a vehicle at a home, apartment, or while shopping at a grocery store is something that most New Mexicans don’t currently have the ability to do,” a news release said. “However, with these updated code changes and an expanded charging network, the state will be ready as more and more people turn to EVs.”
The governor has also requested that the legislature approve a new income tax credit for EVs, and for the purchase and installation of EV charging units. If House Bill 140 is approved, a credit of up to $25,000 would be available for commercial charging units, and $400 would be available for residential ones.
“Through close work with constituents and industry experts, the Construction Industries Division will now implement a set of codes that will ensure our state is constructing energy efficient homes and supporting drivers as they purchase electric vehicles,” Clay Bailey, superintendent of NMRLD, said in a statement. “This will allow newly constructed homes to be at or close to zero energy.”
The newly adopted codes will be required on new construction projects starting July 30.
The codes require that commercial facilities, including apartment complexes and retail centers, have available parking spaces to support EV infrastructure. New homes would be required to be equipped with an electrical outlet that supports future EV charging equipment and there would be revised minimum insulation values and requirements to assist with efficient heating and cooling.