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Sarah Propst

Cabinet Secretary at Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department of New Mexico

Sarah Cottrell Propst is a prominent figure in New Mexico's energy and environmental sectors, having served as the Cabinet Secretary for the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) since January 2019. Appointed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, she has been instrumental in advancing the state's clean energy initiatives and environmental stewardship during her tenure.

Background and Education

Sarah Cottrell Propst holds a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University and an undergraduate degree from Davidson College. Her career began as a Research Fellow with the Pew Center on Global Climate Change, and she later served as an Energy and Environmental Policy Advisor to former Governor Bill Richardson. Before her role at EMNRD, she was the Executive Director of the Interwest Energy Alliance, a trade association focused on renewable energy in the western United States.134

Achievements

During her time as Secretary, Propst led significant initiatives including:

  • Energy Transition Act: She was pivotal in negotiating this act, which aims for New Mexico to achieve zero-carbon electricity by 2045.
  • Renewable Energy Growth: Under her leadership, renewable resources accounted for 42% of New Mexico's in-state energy generation by 2022.
  • Environmental Regulations: She implemented stringent regulations on methane emissions from the oil and gas industry, contributing to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to less regulated states like Texas.125

Propst also spearheaded the establishment of the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, New Mexico's first permanent conservation funding source, and expanded the state parks system significantly during her tenure.15

Departure and Future Plans

As of December 31, 2023, Sarah Cottrell Propst will leave her position at EMNRD to take on a new role as Vice President of State Affairs at the American Clean Power Association (ACP), where she will focus on state-level advocacy for clean energy policies.37 Her departure marks the end of a five-year period characterized by significant environmental progress in New Mexico.16

In summary, Sarah Cottrell Propst has made substantial contributions to New Mexico's environmental policy and clean energy landscape, leaving a legacy that emphasizes sustainability and responsible resource management.

Highlights

Jun 27 · nmnn.net
Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department Secretary ...
May 3 · cleanpower.org
Sarah Cottrell Propst | ACP - American Clean Power
Sarah Cottrell Propst | ACP - American Clean Power
Nov 10 · ladailypost.com
Cottrell Propst Commended For Key Environmental Victories
Nov 10 · cleanpower.org
ACP Adds Two New Vice Presidents - American Clean Power
Cottrell Propst leaves legacy of historic environmental progress and ...
Nov 9 · peekyou.com
Sarah Propst Facebook, Instagram & Twitter on PeekYou
Nov 9 · krqe.com
New Mexico's energy secretary stepping down - KRQE
New Mexico's energy secretary stepping down - KRQE

Related Questions

What are some of the key achievements of Sarah Cottrell Propst during her tenure?
What is the American Clean Power Association, and what role does Sarah Propst play there?
How did Sarah Cottrell Propst contribute to New Mexico's clean energy initiatives?
What was the Energy Transition Act, and how did it impact New Mexico?
What is the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, and how was it established?
Sarah Propst
Sarah Propst, photo 1
Sarah Propst, photo 2
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Location

Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States