IT’S NOT JUST POWER
IT’S THE FOUNDATION OF A STRONGER NEW MEXICO
New Mexico’s oil and natural gas resources do far more than keep the lights on. They help grow the food we eat, support the healthcare we rely on, support the outdoor adventures we love, and fuel the state’s thriving craft beer scene.
These essential energy resources make modern life possible — and they keep New Mexico’s economy strong.
THE CARE YOU DEPEND ON IS STRONGER WHEN NEW MEXICO’S ENERGY ECONOMY IS STRONG
Energy revenue helps fund healthcare programs, modern medical facilities, and the professionals who staff them.
Oil and gas revenues provide roughly one-third of New Mexico’s General Fund, supporting Medicaid, hospitals, clinics, and community health programs.
These dollars have helped expand healthcare coverage, launch statewide early childhood services, and create a nearly $1 billion Higher Education Trust Fund to train nurses and medical professionals. In growing regions like Lea and Eddy counties, increased energy activity has strengthened local budgets and supported projects such as the new $75 million hospital approved in Hobbs.
Beyond funding, oil and natural gas also provide the plastics, microchips, and materials used in modern medical equipment and emergency care.
THE FOOD ON YOUR TABLE STARTS WITH THE ENERGY THAT KEEPS NEW MEXICO FARMS MOVING
Reliable oil and natural gas fuel the equipment, fertilizers, and transportation behind every harvest.
New Mexico farmers depend on energy at every stage of agricultural production — from powering tractors and irrigation pumps to supporting ranching and dairy operations statewide. In 2023, New Mexico’s agricultural producers spent more than $117 million on fuel and oil to keep essential equipment running. Natural gas is also the key ingredient in nitrogen fertilizer, making up 70–90% of its production cost and helping sustain chile, pecan, and alfalfa production.
These resources help support nearly $4 billion in agricultural value each year, providing stability for rural communities and families across the state.
THE BREWERIES YOU VISIT AND THE BEERS YOU ENJOY RUN ON AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE ENERGY
From brewing heat to refrigeration and delivery, oil and natural gas support the entire craft beer process.
With 104 craft breweries, New Mexico ranks among the top states in breweries per capita. Natural gas provides the heat for brewing, while electricity powers refrigeration, bottling lines, and taproom service. Transportation — also dependent on oil — moves ingredients in and finished products out. Because New Mexico produces abundant natural gas, prices remain less than half the national average, helping breweries control costs and invest in new equipment, staff, and local growth. Energy supports not only the beer you drink, but the small businesses and communities behind it.
YOUR TRIPS, YOUR TRAILS, YOUR WEEKEND GETAWAYS — ALL MADE POSSIBLE BY THE ENERGY THAT KEEPS NEW MEXICO CONNECTED
From well-maintained highways to accessible parks, oil and natural gas support the services behind every outdoor experience.
New Mexico welcomed 42.6 million visitors last year, generating $8.8 billion in spending. Many of the roads, public safety programs, and park services tourists and residents rely on are supported by oil and gas revenues — about $13 billion in FY 2023. These dollars help keep iconic destinations like White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, and high-country recreation areas open and accessible. At White Sands alone, 729,000 visitors contributed $53 million to the local economy. Reliable energy helps ensure that the places New Mexicans love remain ready for every season.
WHY IT MATTERS
Oil and natural gas support nearly every sector of New Mexico’s economy — from the food we grow and the healthcare we rely on to the outdoor recreation and local businesses that make our communities unique. These resources help fund public services, create jobs, and ensure that families and businesses across the state have access to reliable, affordable energy every day.