Solar Power Credits and Tenant Savings in New Mexico

Paying for utilities can be a big part of your monthly expenses as a renter in New Mexico. Many renters wonder if they can save money through solar power credits when their building or landlord uses solar energy. This guide explains how solar power savings work for renters, what rights and protections exist under New Mexico law, and the official steps to take if you have questions about your utility billing or credits.

Understanding Solar Power Credits for Renters

Solar panels are becoming more common in New Mexico rental properties. When a landlord installs solar panels, the energy generated can reduce overall utility costs. But whether renters benefit from these savings depends on several factors:

• How utilities are set up (individually metered or master-metered)
• The type of billing agreement in your lease
• Whether the property participates in community solar programs

New Mexico supports community solar projects, which allow multiple households — including renters — to subscribe and receive bill credits for a local solar installation. Under the Community Solar Act, renters can sign up depending on availability and eligibility.^[1]

Who Gets Solar Credits?

If you pay your utility bill directly to the electric company, you may be able to enroll in a local community solar project and receive credits on your bill. If your landlord pays the electricity for the whole building (master-metered), they usually receive the benefit, and your ability to receive credits depends on your rental agreement.

New Mexico Laws Protecting Renters and Utility Billing

The main law that protects tenants’ rights in New Mexico is the New Mexico Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act.^[2] This Act requires landlords to be fair and transparent in how utilities are billed, especially if utilities are not individually metered.

• Landlords must give written notice if utility costs are changing.
• They cannot profit from utility reselling (only pass along the actual cost to renters).
• Renters have a right to reasonable proof of utility charges.

Official Forms and Steps for Renters

• Residential Rental Agreement (No official statewide form number): Used to spell out who pays for which utilities and how any solar credits are handled. Ask for an updated copy if your building installs solar.
• Complaint Form – Manufactured Housing Division: If you live in a mobile or manufactured home park, you can submit the Resident Complaint Against Community Form to report utility or solar billing issues.
  Example: You believe your landlord is not crediting you with promised solar savings in your rent. Complete the form, attach supporting documents, and file it with the Manufactured Housing Division.

For most residential tenants, complaints regarding illegal utility charges or lease violations are handled through the local magistrate or metropolitan court system, which resolves disputes under the Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act. See the New Mexico Courts’ guide for renters for detailed procedures.^[3]

How to Take Action if You Have Utility or Billing Concerns

Here are practical steps for New Mexico renters facing issues with solar credits, utility charges, or lack of billing transparency:

• Request a written statement from your landlord or property manager showing how utility costs – including solar credits – are calculated.
• Consult your lease to check your rights regarding utilities and billing changes.
• If you believe you are being charged unfairly, send a written notice to the landlord outlining your concerns and request resolution.
• If not resolved, contact New Mexico’s local magistrate or metropolitan court for dispute resolution, or submit the relevant complaint form if in a manufactured housing community.

Residential Tenancy Dispute Tribunals in New Mexico

Disputes between renters and landlords about utilities and solar credits are handled by the New Mexico Magistrate and Metropolitan Courts, which officially oversee residential tenancy concerns under state law.

FAQ: Solar Power Credits and Renters' Utility Rights

1. Can my landlord keep all the solar credits if I pay utilities separately?
   No. If you pay utilities directly, you may be able to sign up for a community solar project and receive your own credits. If utilities are included in rent or master-metered, ask your landlord if savings are passed on in your charges.
2. Am I protected by law if my landlord changes how utilities are billed after installing solar?
   Yes. The Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act requires landlords to give written notice of billing changes and prohibits charging more than the actual cost of utilities.
3. What can I do if I believe my landlord overcharges me for utilities?
   You can request proof of charges and, if necessary, file a complaint with the courts or the Manufactured Housing Division (for mobile home communities).
4. Can renters sign up for community solar in New Mexico?
   Yes, renters can participate if their property and electric billing qualify. Check the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission community solar page for details.
5. Is there a specific complaint form for all renters?
   There is not a statewide form for all renters, but manufactured housing residents can use an official complaint form. Others should document their complaint in writing and contact their local court.

Conclusion

• Renters in New Mexico may benefit from solar credits depending on their lease and billing arrangement.
• State law protects tenants from unfair billing and requires transparency about utilities and solar savings.
• If issues arise, there are clear steps and official bodies to help resolve disputes.

Read your lease carefully, ask questions, and use the official channels if you need help. Taking these steps can help you understand and assert your rights regarding solar power credits and utility savings.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Mexico Magistrate & Metropolitan Courts: Residential Owner-Resident Relations Guide
• Community Solar Act (official legislation PDF)
• Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act - New Mexico Statutes
• NM Manufactured Housing Division (complaints and contacts)
• New Mexico PRC Community Solar Program

---

1. Community Solar Act (2021)
2. New Mexico Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act
3. New Mexico Courts Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Portal

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations