Policies, ESG Efforts Boost Mexico’s Self-Consumption Efforts

Energy policies and ESG efforts are driving self-consumption growth in Mexico. Industry experts estimate Distributed Generation (DG) photovoltaic capacity grew by 31.69% in 1H24. In other news, Mexico may require an investment of US$15 billion to meet its energy transition goals and address additional demand, says the Mexican Energy Council (COMENER). 

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Surge in Self-Consumption Drives Mexico's Energy Transformation
Mexico’s self-consumption sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by energy policies and increased ESG interest. Part of Sheinbaum’s energy plan proposes raising the limit for "exempt electricity generation" from 0.5 to 0.7MW. This adjustment directly benefits DG, which is generated by exempt generators, meaning those not requiring generation permits from CRE, provided they operate within the set megawatt limits. 

Bioenergy: The role of Biogas, Biomethane in Energy Transition

Guillermo Gómez, CEO, Consultoría Sustentable G2H, notes that the distinction between "producing" and "generating" biogas is crucial for Mexico's bioenergy development. While biogas from controlled processes, like biodigesters, offers clear benefits, the natural decomposition process in landfills complicates regulatory clarity. This gap, along with the lack of technical-legal definitions for biomethane, hinders progress, but the potential for biogas and biomethane to contribute to Mexico's energy transition remains significant, he notes. 

Mexico's New Plant Transforms Organic Waste Into Energy

A new plant in Mexico City is transforming organic waste into energy, a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The first module of the Hydrothermal Carbonization Plant at Bordo Poniente has been completed and is currently undergoing testing. Led by UNAM, the Ministry of Energy (SENER), and CFE, the project is designed to process 72t of organic waste daily, producing 8.7t of hydrochar. This process will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 24,600t/y, while sequestering 9,500t of carbon.   

The Year in Energy: New Energy Plan for a New Administration

Mexico sees the end of an eventful year marked by the inauguration of its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, an expert in energy. This year has been characterized by significant counter-reforms and major infrastructure announcements that promise to reshape the country's energy landscape.

Significant Investment Needed for Energy Transition

Mexico requires an investment of US$15 billion to meet its energy transition goals and address an additional industrial demand of 9,500MW by 2030, according to COMENER. This investment is primarily aimed at renewable energy generation projects and the expansion of electric transmission infrastructure.