QUESTA, N.M. — Kit Carson Electric Cooperative (KCEC) says work continues on its proposed hydrogen energy storage project in Questa, which officials believe could help the utility achieve 100% renewable, carbon-free operations by 2028.
In a community update released this week, KCEC said the cooperative currently receives about 87% of its power from renewable sources and is exploring hydrogen storage as a way to bridge the gap when solar and other renewable energy sources are not generating electricity.
The proposed project would use non-potable groundwater associated with the former mine site, not municipal drinking water, to produce hydrogen through an electrolysis process. KCEC says the hydrogen would be used to store renewable energy for longer periods and provide electricity during nighttime hours, cloudy conditions and extended periods of low renewable generation.
Utility officials say construction continues on solar infrastructure that would support the hydrogen storage system if it moves forward.
KCEC also highlighted ongoing safety planning for the project, including coordination with local first responders and the development of emergency response procedures before operations begin.
Beyond the energy project, the cooperative said it has invested more than $50,000 in community organizations and projects across Taos County in 2026 through its community grant program. One recent award provided $5,000 to the Friends of the Questa Public Library for landscaping and irrigation improvements.
Officials also estimate the hydrogen project could generate approximately $20 million in net revenue for the Village of Questa over 20 years, while contributing an estimated $310 million in total investment to the local economy.
