Renewable Sector Shows Optimism at Re+ Mexico, Ecomondo

Mexico’s renewable energy sector shows optimism as industry leaders, government officials, and international representatives gathered for the sixth edition of Re+ Mexico and the fourth edition of Ecomondo at Expo Guadalajara. Discussions centered on energy transition, investment certainty, and policy reforms aimed at strengthening the country's clean energy landscape.

Re+ Mexico, running from March 5 to 7, brings together energy sector leaders to discuss public policy and technological advancements. The event features keynote speeches, interactive sessions, and an exhibition hall showcasing environmental technologies and sustainable solutions for Latin America.

At the event, Jorge Islas, Deputy Minister of Energy Planning and Transition, SENER, emphasized the government's commitment to sustainability, particularly in supporting vulnerable communities. Initiatives include high-efficiency wood-burning stoves for rural and Indigenous areas and an upcoming photovoltaic rooftop program in northern Mexico, starting in Mexicali.

Jalisco authorities presented a statewide energy efficiency program designed to reduce energy consumption by at least 10%. Manuel Herrera, Jalisco’s Minister of Sustainable Energy Development, stated that the program aims to generate cost savings, increase the use of renewables, and reinvest at least MX$200 million in energy justice programs to address energy poverty. The plan also targets a 15-20% reduction in government energy consumption and seeks to ensure that at least 50% of public institutions’ energy use comes from renewable sources. Jalisco leads Mexico in distributed generation, with a significant number of solar panels installed by businesses and individuals.

Iván Aranda, President, Keymex Energy, highlighted that energy storage is now the most disruptive trend in Mexico’s renewable sector. While solar panel adoption continues, the focus is shifting toward batteries, which will play a critical role in energy transition. He also emphasized the importance of industry collaboration and professional training, warning against unregulated installations by untrained individuals. Aranda called for stronger engagement with industry associations to ensure quality standards, particularly as battery storage solutions become more complex and require specialized expertise.

José Antonio Acevedo, COMETER, highlighted the growing importance of service quality in Mexico’s solar energy sector. While solar panel installations continue to expand, aftersales support and tailored service offerings are becoming key differentiators. COMETER has strengthened its focus on end-to-end solutions, from procurement to post-installation support, ensuring reliability for both residential and large-scale projects.

Regarding storage, Víctor San Román, Field Application Engineer, Pylontech in Latin America, emphasized that this is becoming a necessity rather than an option in Mexico. While lithium battery adoption has been slow due to lack of awareness, demand is rising as businesses recognize the benefits of grid stability and cost savings through energy arbitrage. Pylontech differentiates itself by controlling its entire battery production process, ensuring high quality. The company is expanding its footprint with large-scale storage projects, including a 10MWh system for airports in southeastern Mexico.

Acevedo also noted an increasing interest in collaboration, with major companies seeking strategic partnerships. Additionally, the event has provided valuable opportunities to engage with students and new talent, fostering industry growth.

At the federal level, the Mexican government is advancing energy reforms, including the Electricity Sector Law proposed by President Claudia Sheinbaum. The law mandates electricity sector planning under SENER’s jurisdiction and requires that the state maintains at least 54% of the electricity injected into the grid annually. The government also plans to establish the Strategic Planning Council to oversee sector planning, inspections, and regulatory compliance. Islas stated that the administration has worked to provide greater investment certainty in the energy sector by increasing transparency in strategic projects and establishing diverse participation models for state-owned and private companies.

The event also underscored international collaboration. The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and energy transition. Javier Arribas, Minister-Counselor for the Green Agenda and Energy Transition, EU Delegation in Mexico, announced the upcoming launch of clean trade and investment partnerships aimed at diversifying supply chains.

Trade between Mexico and Italy has also grown, with Valentina Valente, Head of the Economic and Commercial Office, Italian Embassy in Mexico, reporting a 15% increase in 2024, reaching US$11 billion. She noted that since 2023, Mexico has been the top destination for Italian exports to Latin America.

Bernd Rohde, CEO, Italian German Exhibition Company Canada/Mexico, highlighted the significance of knowledge exchange in advancing sustainability. “We celebrate the fact that urgent transformation toward a green future is only possible through cooperation and knowledge exchange. Technology alone is not enough,” he said during the event's inauguration.