PNM Began Statewide Smart Meter Installation
The utility started a multi-year project to deploy over 560,000 smart meters across New Mexico.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Utilities
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In September 2026, the Public Service Company of New Mexico launched a massive effort to install smart meters across the state. This two-and-a-half-year initiative aims to modernize the power grid and reduce the need for manual meter readers.
Why it matters
Smart meters enable two-way communication between the utility and its customers, providing greater visibility into energy consumption. This transition follows a record-breaking surge in electric usage reported by the company in August 2026.
The $344 million grid modernization plan includes $185 million for the installation of 560,000 smart meters. Currently, 290 customers have received the new technology manufactured by Itron Inc.
The players
Public Service Company of New Mexico
This is the primary electric utility provider serving a majority of the state of New Mexico.
Public Regulation Commission
This state regulatory body is responsible for approving utility infrastructure investments and rate filings.
Raúl Torrez
He serves as the Attorney General of New Mexico and oversees legal inquiries into state utility billing practices.
Itron Inc.
This company is the manufacturer contracted to supply the smart meter technology for the project.
The details
PNM utilizes contractors to maintain service levels as they shift away from a manual meter reader workforce. The utility also offers true-ups for customers whose usage was previously estimated using historical data, amid scrutiny from New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez regarding billing practices.
Timeline
PNM first requested smart meter deployment in 2015.
Electric consumption reached all-time highs in August 2026.
Installation of the new devices began in September 2026.
Deployment will begin in the southwest service territory in spring 2027.
The utility expects to complete all installations by the end of 2028.
Market Landscape
The shift to smart grid technology reflects a nationwide trend of utilities moving away from manual infrastructure to automated, two-way communication systems. This move by the Public Service Company of New Mexico aligns with the 2024 Public Regulation Commission grid modernization plan.
Customers can expect changes to their meter reading process as the utility transitions toward automated systems. Households previously subject to estimated billing based on historical data may receive true-up adjustments.
The takeaway
Smart meters provide consumers with real-time data that can lead to better management of household energy costs. Residents should monitor upcoming notifications from the utility regarding installation schedules in their specific area.
Further reading
For more information on infrastructure development, visit the Utilities section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Abqjournal.
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