Intended bonds approved for Controversial Diamond Tail Solar Farm

Commissioners uphold Placitas solar farm decision on split vote

BERNALILLO — The Sandoval County Commission Chambers were full of Placitas residents opposin…

BERNALILLO — A controversial new solar power generation and battery storage facility on the east side of the Sandia Mountains is moving forward with funding.

The Sandoval County Commission approved a declaration of intent to approve an ordinance issuing Iindustrial revenue bonds for up to $497 million May 28 for the Diamond Tail project by PCR Investments.

The approval follows the upholding of Planning and Zoning’s Dec. 10 decision to allow land on Diamond Tail Ranch to be the home for the Diamond Tail Solar project. Members of that community attended a Feb. 18 hearing to protest the recommendation.

Commissioner John Herr asked about the status of that argument during last week’s meeting.

“I know there are a number of community groups and people that were opposed to this project. I just wonder if you have an update on the status of any of those things,” he said.

County financial advisor Rob Burpo explained that the financial side of the project isn’t on the same track with the land use part, which is the epicenter of the argument among the community.

“Tonight’s the first night that we’ve presented you with any of the details on purpose,” he said.

County Attorney Michael Eshleman provided an update of court proceedings on the land discussion. He said there were two filings that were refiled in court of appeals.

“The developer, PCR, has asked the court to intervene in the case. The court hasn’t ruled anything yet,” he said.

The project is moving forward unless the court appeals the land approval.

Burpo added that financially, the solar farm will be huge for the county.

“As I’ve mentioned to you before, this will be the largest non-Intel industrial revenue bond the county has ever done,” he said.

Commissioners unanimously passed the intended industrial revenue bonds.