KTAO
KTAO ("KTAOS 101.9") is a solar-powered FM radio station licensed to serve Taos, New Mexico. The station is owned by Taos Communications Corporation. It airs an adult album alternative music format. The station was assigned the KTAO call letters by the Federal Communications Commission on October 6, 1986. The station is an affiliate of the syndicated Pink Floyd program "Floydian Slip." Radio. History. KTAO (1968-1974), Los Gatos, CA. KTAO 95.3 FM, was an FM station in Los Gatos, owned by former Random House editor, Bill Ryan, and Lorenzo Milam. K-TAOS 101.9FM, Taos, NM. KTAO’s transmitter  was in the town of Taos prior to 1991. Following FCC approval to increase to 1,200 watts, a new transmitter site was needed. A new transmitter was located at 10,800-foot Picuris Peak, which does not have grid power. According to former owner Brad Hockmeyer, solar power was the only option. The high-altitude location of its transmitter gives KTAO rimshot broadcast coverage from as far south as Albuquerque, New Mexico, and north into southern Colorado. This broadcast area is the largest of any solar-powered station in the world. On June 8, 2010, Brad Hockmeyer sold KTAO and the  Solar Center to Aidan Bain, gaining controlling interest of KTAOS Solar Radio 101.9 FM, and the KTAOS Solar Center, a full bar, restaurant, and music venue attached to the operating radio station office building. KTAO is the largest solar powered radio station in the United States. Awards. New Mexico Broadcasters Association (2011) NMBA Station of the Year Public Service Announcement: “Holiday Shop Local Campaign” Station Promotional Announcement: “Testimonial Campaign” Complete Newscast: Paddy Mac in the Mornings Single Topic News: Brad Hockmeyer interview with Tom Udall 30 Second Commercial: “Gay Pride Taos – Gayest Dog Wash EVER” 30 Second Commercial: “Taos Solar  Music Festival 2010” NonSports Talk Show: Paddy Mac in the Mornings Valentine’s Day Matchmaking Sports Talk Show: Tigerbeat Best of Taos (2011) Best DJ: Paddy Mac Best Live Music Venue: The KTAOS Solar Center Solar Center. The KTAO studio offices are located five miles north of the town of Taos in El Prado. Outside the studio and offices is a festival-style performance venue that includes a tent that allows KTAO to host events year-round. The site is located equidistant from Taos Ski Valley and the Historic Town Center, and beneath the tallest peak in New Mexico. The  concert space adjoins the home of two radio stations, solar powered KTAOS 101.9 FM and Luna 103.7 FM. Food services are available to concert-goers.