FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative Selected for the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program

Mora, NM – Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative (MSMEC) was selected to participate in the US Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program.  The GRIP Program aims to strengthen the nation’s electric grid by enhancing grid reliability and resilience across the country.

Working with T&D Services, MSMEC identified several projects suitable for utilizing GRIP Program funding to improve its electric system.  Following a year of contract negotiations and administrative preparation, MSMEC is ready to launch its GRIP Program field efforts. MSMEC’s effort under the GRIP Program is expected to continue over the next 3 to 5 years.

Phase one under the GRIP Program involves collecting a complete inventory of MSMEC’s electric system and developing a model representing MSMEC’s entire service area.  Field data collection by T&D Services’ staff is set to begin as early as March 3, 2025 and will require access to private properties throughout MSMEC’s service territory.  In some cases, MSMEC may need to install its own locks on gates to facilitate access.

Field crews will consist of two-to-four-person teams operating pickup trucks and side-by-side UTVs to complete the inventory.  The collected data will be used to model MSMEC’s system and identify project areas for grid resilience innovations.  Once project areas are identified, a follow-up field effort will be necessary to determine the precise locations for improvements.

Following identification, construction crews will install the necessary infrastructure upgrades.  Once construction is complete, an inspector will be dispatched to verify construction meets correct specifications and standards.

MSMEC appreciates the community’s cooperation and support as it works to modernize and strengthen the local electric grid.  For any questions or concerns, please contact our office at 575-383-4284.