Social Perception of Wind Mega-projects in the State of Yucatán: The Case of the Chicxulub Wind Farm

Abstract

This paper analyzes social perception of the installation of the Chicxulub wind farm in the municipalities of Ixil and Motul, in the state of Yucatán. A mixed research method was used. Quantitative data was obtained through questionnaires, and qualitative information through unstructured interviews. The results show negative responses by the population to the wind farm project, due to its distrust of the state and municipal authorities, and environmental policy regulating authorities, as well as the company that will develop the project. The article concludes that there is low acceptance of this project due to the perception of problems of inequality, discrimination, corruption and power relations in the implementation of Mexican energy policy, which has led the population to consider that transnational corporations exploit the vulnerability of ejido owners.