AMLO’s Plan to Dissolve Autonomous Bodies Raises Concerns

López Obrador is pushing to dissolve autonomous energy regulators CRE and CNH, citing protection of private interests as the main reason for this. Meanwhile, COPARMEX strongly opposes this termination, emphasizing concerns about citizen safeguards, environmental protection, and economic development.

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Plan to Dissolve Autonomous Energy Regulators Moves Forward

President López Obrador plans to submit reforms to dissolve autonomous bodies, including energy regulators CRE and CNH, alleging protection of private interests as the main reason to terminate these organizations. The move follows a pattern of reducing the power and budget of these commissions, reflecting his vision for a streamlined bureaucracy. Critics see this as a democratic setback. The president has not clarified which state entities would assume their functions.

COPARMEX Objects to Autonomous Energy Regulators Termination

COPARMEX voices strong opposition to the federal proposal to eliminate CRE and CNH, citing concerns about potential consequences. The confederation asserts that dismantling these entities compromises citizen safeguards, environmental protection, and economic development. COPARMEX advocates for strengthening regulatory bodies rather than absorbing their functions into the Executive, emphasizing their role in upholding democratic principles, and fostering energy transition aligned with global trends.

Huachicoleo Surges as a Growing Threat in Mexico

PEMEX has been waging a relentless battle against clandestine fuel taps, spending over MX$28 million (US$1.6 million) by August 2023. COPARMEX Chihuahua has expressed concern about rising fuel theft, emphasizing unfair competition, and advocating for advanced technologies like drones. Mexico City addresses the issue with continuous dialog, logistical support, and targeted operations. Fuel theft poses a multifaceted threat to energy security, requiring collaborative efforts and technological solutions.

PEMEX’s Overdue Payments Are Affecting the Industry

PEMEX's debt to suppliers, estimated at MX$297 billion (US$17.22 billion), sparks concern about its impact on local economies and ongoing projects. AMEXHI warns of threats to production goals and extraction projects. The lack of payment leads to service suspensions and financial strain on suppliers. Efforts are underway to seek solutions and allocate resources, emphasizing the need for dialogue and payment plans.

Nuevo Leon Against the Cadereyta Refinery

Representatives from PEMEX's Cadereyta Refinery were summoned to testify on Jan. 19, 2024, by the government of Nuevo Leon due to concerns about rising pollution levels. Authorities, including Governor Samuel García, link the refinery to heightened pollution in the Monterrey area. The refinery is accused of non-cooperation in addressing the issue, as the Nuevo Leon government emphasizes the need for new laws to regulate and tackle industrial pollution effectively. 

ASF to Audit Olmeca Refinery, PEMEX’s Financial Compliance

The Superior Audit of the Federation (ASF) plans an extensive audit of the Dos Bocas "Olmeca" refinery, focusing on six awarded packages. The review includes financial assessments and compliance audits, examining the use of funds allocated to the mega project. The total cost of the Dos Bocas Refinery has risen to US$17.34 billion, raising concerns. ASF's Annual Program also outlines audits on PEMEX's financial standing, supplier payment mechanisms, and compliance with debt obligations, reflecting broader scrutiny on the NOC's operations and financial health.