Harness the Power of Green!

Green initiatives include solar, wind, water, plants, the Earth's internal heat and even LEED building design. Learn more about the power of green at the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department Web site.

Wind energy is abundant in New Mexico, and some New Mexico energy companies are taking advantage of this resource. Among them are PNM's Sky Blue Program and Kit Carson Electric Cooperative's Green Power Program in Taos.

A well-designed, passive solar energy home uses up to 80% less energy for heating than does a well-maintained standard home.

The cost for direct solar energy is decreasing yearly and by 2016 is expected to be comparable to conventional energy sources.

The State of New Mexico offers the Solar Market Development Tax Credit. Homeowners and business owners, including agricultural enterprises, who file for personal income taxes are eligible for this incentive. Visit the state's Energy Conservation and Management Division for more information.

Check out the New Mexico Coalition for Clean Affordable Energy for more ideas.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) buildings are designed and certified by the U.S. Green Building Council as environmentally sustainable. Buildings are scored according to the following six areas:

• Sustainable Sites
• Water Efficiency
• Energy and Atmosphere
• Materials and Resources
• Indoor Environmental Quality
• Innovation and Design Process

The buildings are then given one of four certification levels.

• Certified - lowest level
• Silver
• Gold
• Platinum - highest level

To find out more about the LEED ratings program, please visit the U.S. Green Building Council.