The Los Alamos County Board of Public Utilities meeting on October 1, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of the upcoming Energy Dispatch and Market (EDAM) framework, as board members expressed concerns about their preparedness for significant changes in the electric market.

During the session, discussions revealed that the board lacks sufficient information about EDAM, which is set to reshape how electricity is traded and managed in the region. Board members emphasized the importance of receiving a tutorial or briefing on EDAM to better equip themselves for future decisions. One member noted, “We as a board don’t have a whole lot of information about how EDAM really works,” highlighting the necessity for clarity before the board faces critical choices.

The conversation also touched on the operational status of the County's Combined Gas Turbine Generator (CGTG), which has primarily been used for testing rather than to offset loads. The CGTG, while deemed an expensive resource at approximately $60 to $65 per megawatt hour, was noted for its limited operational use, primarily for voltage and frequency support during grid instability.

As the board prepares for the impending changes brought by EDAM, they are also aware of competing market options, such as the Markets Plus initiative by El Paso Electric and others. The board plans to schedule a meeting to delve deeper into EDAM, aiming to enhance their understanding and readiness for the evolving energy landscape.

The discussions at this meeting underscore a pivotal moment for Los Alamos County as it navigates the complexities of energy management and market participation, with significant implications for future energy strategies and community impact.