Desert Mountain Energy is Ready for the Future of Helium and Natural Gas

Desert Mountain Energy (DME) is a helium and natural gas production company in Chaves County. The West Pecos Slope Abo Gas Field has 188 helium wells, more than 50 miles of gas collection lines, and 77,000 acres of oil and gas leases. There are plans for future well expansion and other opportunities to maximize resource production in the region.

However, when you talk to the DME team, you learn there is more to energy production than extracting raw materials. The company is focused on the long term, taking steps to maximize its impact while protecting the environment and community.

“There are a plethora of natural resources in Chaves County, but how do you responsibly produce them?” asks Robert Rohlfing, CEO and Executive Chairman at Desert Mountain Energy. “You only get one chance to do this right. We believe you can be cost-effective and environmentally responsible – especially in this day and age.”

The DME business philosophy is to maximize shareholder value while maintaining socially and environmentally responsible business practices. This makes sense when one goal helps the other. DME’s efforts make it a good partner to Chaves County while supporting the regional energy sector as a whole.

DME Operates a Helium Processing Facility Locally

A strong example of DME’s commitment to sustainable practices is its local helium facility. When it was built, it was the world’s first solar-powered helium extraction plant. The plant is made of five shipping containers and is computer-operated to reduce any risk of systems releasing chemicals into the atmosphere.

The plant was specifically built outside of Roswell, where it wouldn’t bother the local community. It’s close enough for workers to commute to easily, but not a nuisance, and reduces environmental concerns for residents. This location allows DME to process helium locally, maximizing the resources it extracts from the ground.

“There are very few places where you have a higher helium grade, percentage-wise, than in Eastern New Mexico,” says Rohlfing. “The helium we produce can be used in cooling magnets for MRIs, chip manufacturing, fiber optic cables, and even by SpaceX and NASA.”

Aviation, aerospace, and the great beyond are special to Roswell residents. Not only can Chaves County be known as the home of the National Championship Air Races and a hub for UFO research, but it can also be seen as a leader in energy materials used in space exploration.

The Organization is Focused on the Future

DME’s leadership team is exploring new opportunities for resource extraction whilst maintaining its primary focus on helium and natural gas. The team is considering how its organization can work with other partners and entrepreneurs in the industry. Rohlfing uses the example of sodium-ion batteries and their potential for energy storage with minimal environmental impact.

“You don’t want to create an environmental nightmare 15 years down the road,” he says. “Plus, salt doesn’t burn, making these batteries a safer option for the community.”

Every time Rohlfing discusses new innovations and potential partnerships, he ties his goals back to the Chaves County community. His goal is for DME to operate in a manner that protects Roswell residents in a manner that doesn’t pass energy costs on to their monthly bills, and ensures they have lasting jobs that support their families for decades to come.

“When people get paid meaningful wages, they stay in the area,” he adds. “This helps other companies and entire industries in the community grow.”

DME Continues to Build Local Partnerships

A strong connection to the community isn’t possible without local partnerships. DME is a member of the Roswell Chaves County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and works closely with Mike Espiritu, President and CEO, on various projects. The EDC helps DME secure zoning for industrial projects and identify parcels that balance worker accessibility with resident disruption.

“Desert Mountain Energy continues to be an important contributor to the growth of Chaves County,” says Espiritu. “Their investments in advanced energy production, local infrastructure, and sustainable operations help position our region as a competitive destination for business while creating quality employment opportunities for our residents.”

Demand for power is higher than ever across the United States, and DME is working to supply natural gas to meet that demand, as well as helium to support other industries. As it expands its operations and invests in new technologies, its focus will always be on the people of Roswell and the environment they live in.

“When you look at the history of Roswell, it started with agriculture, and you have to honor it and the people who have been working there for a long time,” says Rohlfing. “We can also be responsible leaders in the energy industry and secure a strong, stable future for the community.”

Learn More About Chaves County Industries

Energy is an important industry in Chaves County, alongside other sectors such as aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Get to know the industries that thrive here and the people who work for them. You can also explore the city’s commitment to climate resiliency and why Roswell is a safe choice for business investment.

Have any questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re happy to discuss your economic development needs and business expansion goals. Let us help you grow.