Massive NM wind energy project has backers, detractors
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A proposed wind energy project in eastern New Mexico has a large group of backers but also faces a substantial number of opponents, including staff at the state's utility regulation commission.
The Santa Fe new Mexican reports the proposal from Minnesota-based energy giant Xcel Energy would see hundreds of turbines erected in Roosevelt County. It would create hundreds of construction jobs and more than two dozen permanent ones when it is completed.
It is backed by local town leaders, educators, state legislators, village councilors and county commissioners.
But the commission's own staff calls the project "fraught with risk" and it is opposed by conservationists.