Eastern New Mexico has incredible wind potential. Our state as a whole ranks 12th in the country for wind potential, but in the eastern plains the wind speeds range from 13- 20 mph. We are in dire need of new projects that are tapped directly into this incredible resource as well as some transmission lines to share the energy across the state.
One wind project in development is the Oso Grande wind farm just southeast of Roswell. Though our current COVID-19 crisis has caused difficulties and delays with construction, the project is to be completed by the end of this year. The wind farm will be capable of powering about 100,000 homes with clean, carbon-free energy at the completion of construction.
Additionally, the economic impact will be vital for the local communities. An estimated 125 construction jobs and 6-10 maintenance jobs will be made with this project. In total, the investment is around 370 million dollars, and revenue generated from the project will go back into the communities to help our schools, roads, and public services.
Combine this incredible venture with the much-needed expansion of transmission lines, and our state will be en route to a unique and sustainable energy system unlike any other. Wind energy has come a long way in the past decade alone, and it’s time that New Mexicans start reaping the benefits from the clean energy industry.