NextEra Energy Transmission, LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc., and the New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority (RETA) have announced the energization of a 137-mile, 345-kilovolt transmission line in New Mexico. The new infrastructure is designed to strengthen grid reliability and help deliver electricity to homes, businesses, and industries across the region.
The Crossroads-Hobbs-Roadrunner Transmission Line, completed ahead of schedule, connects substations across Roosevelt and Lea counties. The project is intended to meet rising electricity demand, expand access to low-cost energy, and support economic growth in the region. According to project estimates, the transmission line is expected to reduce the typical residential electricity bill in the area by approximately $13 per month.
The project marks the third consecutive transmission development completed on time and within budget by NextEra Energy Transmission for the Southwest Power Pool grid. It is also the second of three transmission projects facilitated by the New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority for the state’s electric grid since 2021.
Matt Valle, President of NextEra Energy Transmission, said, “At a time when America needs more electricity, needs it affordably, and needs it now, this project shows what’s possible when transmission developers, strong collaboration, community engagement and disciplined execution come together. This is speed-to-power at its finest and the kind of infrastructure that will power communities well into the future.”
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham highlighted the project’s broader economic impact, stating, “The Crossroads project demonstrates New Mexico’s leadership in building the infrastructure that drives economic development and affordability for everyday New Mexicans. Together, we are building energy, transmission and jobs that will power our workforce and economy, reliably and affordably, for generations to come.”
The project also delivered significant environmental benefits through collaborative conservation efforts. Approximately 40 square miles of land have been set aside in New Mexico for the preservation of lesser prairie chicken habitat.
Commenting on the conservation initiative, New Mexico State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard said, “The Crossroads project is a great example of the power of collaboration. Working with NextEra and nonprofit partners, we are conserving a 40 square-mile habitat for the lesser prairie chicken while delivering much-needed electricity to keep the lights on in southern New Mexico. These efforts will ensure we are meeting the dual mandate of the land office pairing protections for the species with historic renewable revenue for New Mexico’s school kids. This is a win-win for everybody and will only add to the unprecedented $15 billion the State Land Office has earned for public education during my time in office.”
Lynn Mostoller, Executive Director of the New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority, emphasized the project’s role in advancing the state’s renewable energy goals. “RETA was founded to spur economic development in New Mexico by unlocking the renewable energy potential of New Mexico through transmission. There is no better example than the Crossroads project. We are proud to have co-developed this project and commend NextEra Energy Transmission Southwest for the remarkable accomplishment of building Crossroads from concept to completion in five years,” Mostoller said.
The Crossroads-Hobbs-Roadrunner Transmission Line represents a significant addition to New Mexico’s power infrastructure, supporting grid reliability, affordability, economic development, and environmental stewardship across the state.
