Inside New Mexico’s Bold Plan to Lead the Carbon-Free Energy Revolution—and Protect Jobs
National experts and local leaders unite in Albuquerque to shape a just transition to clean energy and revive fossil-fuel economies in 2025.
- 49% of Wyoming’s state budget comes from coal revenue
- New Mexico is the 2nd-largest oil producer in the U.S.
- 2019: NM passed the landmark Energy Transition Act
- June 16: National experts gather for a policy panel in Albuquerque
Albuquerque is buzzing with new ideas for the nation’s clean energy transition. The University of New Mexico (UNM) Just Transition to Green Energy Grand Challenge team made headlines by bringing together top researchers, policymakers, and advocates to answer a critical question: How do we move to a low-carbon economy while looking after workers and communities who’ve relied on oil and coal for decades?
A recent event in UNM’s “Fueling a Fair and Just Energy Future” Speaker Series featured Mijin Cha, a pioneering climate policy researcher from UC Santa Cruz. Cha highlighted how economies built on coal and oil, like those in New Mexico and Wyoming, face dire consequences as fossil fuel resources decline. Her new book, A Just Transition for All: Workers and Communities for a Carbon-Free Future, offers a bold blueprint for supporting cities and workers at the front lines of energy change.
Cha described the harsh economic realities in the Powder River Basin—America’s biggest coal-producing region. She warned that regions reliant on dwindling fossil fuel reserves risk financial collapse unless they plan ahead.
What Is a “Just Transition”—And Why Does It Matter Now?
A “just transition” means more than switching power sources—it’s about fairness. As energy jobs disappear, families and whole towns are left scrambling. That’s why UNM and its partners, including the New Mexico Economic Development Department, are rallying scientists, economists, and advocates to shape policies that protect vulnerable communities throughout the coming energy revolution.
Who Are the National Experts Coming to Albuquerque?
The next big moment is June 16, when UNM and national leaders host “Diversifying Extractive Economies,” a free public panel on turning fossil fuel towns into clean-energy champions. The powerhouse lineup includes:
- Emily Grubert (University of Notre Dame)
- Daniel Raimi (Resources for the Future)
- Noah Kaufman (Columbia University)
- Dustin Tingley (Harvard University)
They’ll share insights on energy policy, workforce retraining, and how to turn financial crisis into opportunity.
Q: How Is New Mexico Preparing for a Carbon-Free Economy?
New Mexico is a national leader, thanks to the 2019 Energy Transition Act (ETA). This law steers the state away from coal, supports workforce retraining, and invests in economic development for communities hit hardest by power plant closures—especially after the shutdown of Northwestern New Mexico’s San Juan Generating Station.
Gabriel Pacyniak, a UNM law professor and co-leader of the Grand Challenge team, says New Mexico must develop inclusive policies so everyone—including low-income communities—can benefit from the clean energy boom.
How Can You Access Cutting-Edge Research?
Mijin Cha’s essential book, A Just Transition for All: Workers and Communities for a Carbon-Free Future (MIT Press, 2025), is available in print and as a free download. It’s a must-read for policymakers, activists, and anyone interested in shaping a carbon-free future.
For in-depth updates and events, follow UNM Grand Challenges and University of New Mexico.
How to Support a Just Energy Transition in Your Community
- Attend public events and panels to stay informed.
- Advocate for long-term local funding to support displaced workers.
- Promote policies that bring new industries—and new jobs—to fossil-fuel-dependent regions.
- Engage with organizations like the United Nations and local universities driving green initiatives.
Ready to help shape the next era of energy and opportunity? Join the movement for a fair, just transition—your involvement could spark lasting change.
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Just Transition Action Checklist:
- Mark June 16 for the “Diversifying Extractive Economies” panel at UNM.
- Download and read “A Just Transition for All.”
- Connect with NM’s Grand Challenge and your local policymakers.
- Support new workforce training and green energy initiatives in your area.
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