Jim Townsend, a State Senator from New Mexico, has expressed skepticism about wind energy, labeling it as inefficient and costly. His remarks were made in response to a documentary that questions renewable energy practices.
"It is very expensive and inefficient as a supply," said Townsend.
The documentary, titled "BLOWN AWAY: Exposing the Wind Scam," was filmed in New Mexico and produced by Steve Cortes. It criticizes wind energy for being inefficient and misleading in its environmental claims. According to the New Mexico Sun, the film argues that wind turbines are expensive, rely on fossil fuels for construction and maintenance, and negatively impact rural communities without delivering the promised benefits. This documentary has sparked debate over the true costs and effectiveness of wind energy, with clean energy advocates defending its role in reducing emissions.
As of late 2023, New Mexico ranked ninth in the United States for total installed wind energy capacity, reaching approximately 4,400 megawatts. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that the state's wind projects form a growing share of its renewable energy output and are essential for meeting emission reduction targets. These developments are part of a broader strategy to diversify New Mexico's energy portfolio beyond fossil fuels.
In early 2024, New Mexico ranked second nationwide for year-to-date wind power installation, following Wyoming. Renewable Energy World notes that this surge places New Mexico among national leaders in wind development and underscores its role in advancing U.S. renewable energy benchmarks. The state's high wind potential and investments in transmission have facilitated rapid project completion.
Townsend is a Republican state senator representing District 34 in New Mexico. He was elected to the Senate in 2024 after serving in the State House from 2015 to 2024. Ballotpedia indicates that Townsend has a legislative background focused on energy and economic policy and previously served as the House Republican Leader. He has consistently advocated for fossil fuel development while critiquing aggressive renewable mandates.
