This project was designed by people who live here, for people who live here.
The Questa Hydrogen Project is a community-driven effort to reimagine the future of the former Chevron molybdenum mine site.
When the mine closed in 2014, Questa lost jobs, economic stability, and a key part of its identity. Today, local leaders, regional partners, and Kit Carson Electric Cooperative (KCEC) are working together to transform that legacy into an opportunity—one rooted in clean energy, long-term resilience, and community benefit.
This project is not just about energy. It’s about restoring purpose to the land, creating new economic pathways, and ensuring that decisions about Questa’s future are made by the people who call it home.
Four Areas of Impact
Hydrogen, Water & Safety
Clean energy powered by innovation, with safety and environmental stewardship at the core.
Wildfire Mitigation
Using energy infrastructure to reduce wildfire risk and protect communities.
Economic Development
Creating jobs, attracting investment, and building a stronger local economy.
Quality of Life
Improving affordability, reliability, and long-term sustainability for residents.
Overview of the Project
The proposed project would repurpose existing infrastructure at the former mine site to produce clean hydrogen using electrolysis—a process that separates hydrogen from water using electricity.
The hydrogen can then be:
- Stored for long-duration energy use
- Used to generate electricity when needed
- Integrated into a more reliable and resilient local grid
The facility is designed to:
- Utilize existing industrial land—not untouched areas
- Use reclaimed water already stored at the site
- Support KCEC’s goal of local, affordable, and renewable energy
This is a long-term investment in energy independence for Northern New Mexico—built on infrastructure that already exists and guided by community input.
The Impact Upon Questa’s Landscape and Community
What will the facility look like?
The facility will include equipment such as electrolyzers, hydrogen storage units, and electrical infrastructure. It will resemble other small-scale utility facilities already present in the region.
How does this benefit local residents?
The project is expected to improve energy reliability, reduce outages, support renewable energy, and create jobs. It also helps keep more energy resources local, rather than relying on outside markets.
Will there be local jobs?
Yes. The project is expected to create jobs during both construction and ongoing operations.
Has the project been reviewed by regulators?
Yes. The project has gone through federal environmental review processes and must meet multiple regulatory requirements before construction can begin.
How is the project funded?
The project includes a combination of federal funding support and cooperative investment.
Why is this project being proposed in Questa?
Questa is uniquely positioned for this type of project due to its existing energy infrastructure, access to renewable resources, and connection to the regional grid. The goal is to strengthen local energy reliability while supporting a cleaner and more resilient energy future for the community.
Will it change the character of the community?
The project is designed to fit within an existing utility setting and is relatively compact. It is not a large industrial complex and is not expected to significantly change the character of the area.
Will this lower electricity costs?
While immediate cost reductions are not guaranteed, the project is designed to stabilize costs over time by reducing exposure to volatile energy markets and increasing local energy control.
What stage is the project in?
The project is currently in the planning, design, and permitting phase. Community engagement is ongoing, and input continues to shape the process.
Is the project finalized?
No. Like most infrastructure projects, it will continue to evolve as design, permitting, and community input progress.
Will ratepayers pay for this?
The project is structured to minimize impacts on ratepayers and focus on long-term reliability and cost stability.
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Community Meeting Recording
News coverage and media updates
Project documents and environmental reviews
Public input opportunities