The Importance of implementing Energy Justice and Energy Democracy Principles in Energy Projects in Mexico

Abstract

This papers aims at examining the importance of adopting energy democracy and energy justice principles in carrying out energy projects in Mexico. These concepts have gained international relevance in recent years due to the climate change and the energy transition; however, they have not been adopted to evaluate the feasibility of Mexico’s energy projects. In this context, this research analyzes the Eurus wind farm in the state of Oaxaca, which was recognized for complying with Mexican regulations and paying particular attention to environmental and social impacts, as well as governance issues; even it has gained international recognition. Nonetheless, from its construction to its current operation it has had conflicts with the communities. The main findings are that when analyzing this project under the crucible of energy democracy and energy justice, we found several negative impacts and deficiencies in its development, the reason being the absence of these principles when evaluating this energy project.