PEMEX, CFE, SENER Oversee Installation at Salina Cruz Refinery

SENER, PEMEX and CFE oversaw the installation of a hydro-treatment reactor at the Salina Cruz refinery, PEMEX said in a press release. The reactor is part of a broader effort to improve fuel quality and advance the modernization of the nation’s refining infrastructure.

The event was attended by Minister of Energy, Luz Elena González Escobar, CFE’s Director General Emilia Calleja and PEMEX’s Director General Víctor Rodríguez Padilla, reflecting coordinated action among federal energy institutions. The hydro-treatment unit is designed to remove sulfur from diesel using hydrogen, producing cleaner fuels in line with environmental and efficiency standards. PEMEX said the project is a key component of ongoing upgrades to productive assets.

Installation of the reactor forms part of the strategy to enhance the National Refining System (SNR), which includes other projects such as coquizadora units intended to convert heavy residues into lighter products, gas and coker plant. These improvements aim to increase domestic fuel production and reduce dependence on imported refined products. PEMEX’s release positioned the work at Salina Cruz as contributing to national energy security and regional economic activity, including employment and supply chain integration in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, mentioned the NOC.

Industry and Policy Context

The modernization of the Salina Cruz refinery occurs against a backdrop of persistent challenges in PEMEX’s production and financial performance. PEMEX continues to invest in its Strategic Plan 2025–2035, which includes upgrading refining capacity, stabilizing crude oil and natural gas output, and integrating new infrastructure such as the Olmeca refinery, part of efforts to increase national refining throughput. Despite these investments, the company’s average crude production has remained below the government’s target. 

PEMEX has also maintained significant capital expenditures aimed at preserving its operational base. According to company communications, it executed approximately 205 billion pesos of its physical investment budget through November 2025, consistent with the approved federal budget, and expanded investment capacity via a financing program in coordination with the Ministry of Finance and Banobras. Planned investment for 2026 is set to rise by about 17.7%, and future spending is expected to include private participation through existing contractual schemes and new mixed-investment contracts.