Energy Reform's Chance for Approval Increases

A thermoelectric power plant in Merida owned by CFE collapsed. The opposition has started to negotiate with MORENA regarding the energy reform. In commemoration of International Women’s Day, data shows a heavy underrepresentation of women in energy sector leadership positions. In other news, Brazilian former President Lula da Silva voiced support for President López Obrador’s initiative to reform the energy sector during a visit to Mexico.

Ready for more? Here is the Week in Energy!

Mexico Solar Summit and Mexico Energy Forum

Mexico Solar Summit celebrated its first edition as a spinoff of the traditional yearly event Mexico Energy Forum on March 8. Leaders of the energy sector focused on utility-scale and DG solar developments gathered virtually to share ideas and insights regarding the future of the sector. Later, on March 9 and 10, decision-makers from other energy industry sectors celebrated the 2022 edition of Mexico Energy Forum. If you missed the event, check out the highlights at Mexico Business News.

CFE’s Thermoelectric Power Plant in Merida Collapses

The cooling tower of Merida II Thermoelectric Power Plant’s Unit 2, owned by state utility CFE, collapsed on March 2. So far, the cause of the disaster is unknown and no further information has been shared by CFE. Nevertheless, workers claim the collapse was caused by a lack of maintenance. Despite the Merida II plant being out of service for an indefinite time, CFE assured that electricity supply in the Yucatan peninsula is guaranteed.

Opposition Begins Energy Reform Negotiations

A possible approval for the energy reform promoted by President López Obrador is beginning to show signs of hope following the culmination of Open Parliament discussions. Two key opposition parties, PAN and PRI, as well as members of the private sector have shared their openness to negotiating with the federal government to pass the reform in Congress. According to reports, contacts between PRI, PAN and MORENA have grown deeper in recent weeks.

Women Heavily Underrepresented in Energy Sector’s Decision-Making Positions

As part of the commemoration of International Women's Day, an analysis by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), together with the International Energy Agency (IEA), shows that women represent just under 14 percent of senior managers in energy sector companies.

Lula da Silva Visits Mexico and Supports Energy Reform

Former President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, visited Mexico. Meeting with officials of Morena, PT and PVEM, Lula asked the ruling coalition to continue its fight to recover state control over the energy sector, but warned them that they will have to face strongly opposed industry interests.

Bilateral Relationships Could be Harmed by Energy Policy Direction

US Ambassador Ken Salazar declared that the Mexico-US bilateral relationship could be harmed if the countries fail to achieve an integrated vision regarding energy, particularly on clean energy development. He emphasized that the Biden administration is truly committed to the regional energy transition and that the US remains confident that Mexico will grant a “big endorsement" to clean energy development and the fight against climate change.

CFE Bets on Mini Hydropower Plants to Increase Its Clean Energy Production

CFE is betting on the construction and modernization of several mini-hydroelectric plants in Sinaloa, Michoacán, Jalisco, Chiapas and Nayarit, in order to increase its clean energy generation capacity.

Sonora Develops Green Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Projects

The Sonora Energy Cluster met with specialists from the British Embassy in Mexico and the Mario Molina Center to promote sustainable projects in the state. The meeting addressed the state’s potential for the development of renewable energy, including green hydrogen initiatives.