GE Vernova, Iberdrola México Kick Off Topolobampo III Power Plant

GE Vernova's Gas Power business and Iberdrola México celebrated the successful commencement of commercial operations at the Topolobampo III power plant, located in Sinaloa, near the Topolobampo natural gas pipeline. 

Powered by GE's high-efficiency class H combined-cycle equipment, including the first 7HA.01 gas turbines in Mexico, the plant aims to support the National Electric System and foster increased growth of renewable energy in the country. With an installed capacity of 766MW, the plant generates energy equivalent to that required for over 1.6 million Mexican households.

Dave Ross, President and CEO for Gas Power, GE Vernova in the Americas, emphasized GE Vernova's commitment to supporting Mexico's energy goals and transforming how future demands are met. The 7HA.01 gas turbine, designed for high efficiency and flexibility, marks its first deployment in Mexico. The turbine can start and reach full power in under 10 minutes, providing enhanced flexibility to meet changing grid demands and can burn hydrogen mixed with natural gas.

Topolobampo III will help meet the rising energy demand in Mexico, where the population is expected to exceed 150 million by 2050, surpassing the current 127 million, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Mexico is a major natural gas producer, with a 2022 production increase of 18% compared to 2021. Simultaneously, the Mexican government plans to double the current renewable capacity by 2030, boosting solar and wind capacity from 15 GW to 40 GW.

Iberdrola in Mexico 

In June, an agreement between Iberdrola and the Mexican government was finalized, initially announced in April, marking a partial divestment of the company's assets in the country. Despite facing challenges, Iberdrola maintains its commitment to investment interests in Mexico. The company chose to retain ownership of 15 plants, ensuring uninterrupted service for private customers, while strategically pivoting toward the expansion of renewable energy projects across the country.

According to Energía a Debate, Iberdrola's total investments in Mexico amount to US$1.9 billion, with plans for additional investments in five states. Among these states is Durango, where the company envisions a substantial investment totaling US$500 million.
The company is enthusiastic about tackling the various challenges associated with increasing investment and aiding companies in expanding their local operations. David Macias, Manager of Smart Solutions, Iberdrola, emphasized at the Mexico Solar Summit 2022 that addressing these opportunities promptly will expedite Mexico's progress toward a successful energy transition.