Chamber of Deputies Reports 44% Reduction in Electricity Use

The Chamber of Deputies reported a 44.8% reduction in electricity consumption at the San Lázaro Legislative Palace, positioning the facility as a national leader in public sector energy efficiency. According to a technical report by the World Resources Institute (WRI) Mexico, the legislative complex reached a consumption intensity of 73 kilowatt-hours per square meter (kWh/m²) in 2024. This performance level is between 33% and 63% lower than the national average for corporate office buildings in Mexico.

These results stem from a strategic alliance and a letter of intent signed between the Chamber of Deputies and WRI Mexico in February 2025. The agreement established a framework to transform the San Lázaro complex into a sustainable model through the implementation of the Comprehensive Sustainability Program (PSI). This institutional strategy integrates environmental criteria into daily operations to optimize resource use and reduce pollutants.

The collaboration began with an extensive diagnostic phase to evaluate the building's status regarding energy management, waste, emissions, air quality, and water use. Sergio Gutiérrez, President, Chamber of Deputies, emphasized the importance of this assessment in achieving the goal of making San Lázaro the most sustainable building in the country. "This alliance with WRI Mexico is crucial to reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring a more sustainable future," Gutiérrez stated.

The diagnostic process, overseen by Laura Ballesteros (Citizens’ Movement), Secretary of the Congress’ Board of Directors, identified key areas for technical improvement, including the transition to green energy and the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems. To validate these efforts, the Chamber has secured the ISO 14001 environmental management standard, the Environmental Quality Certificate from the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), and Level 1 Carbon Neutral status.

WRI Mexico highlighted the implementation of a digital energy tracking tool and an indicator system aligned with international standards. This model allows the institution to monitor consumption patterns, optimize climate control and lighting systems, and identify energy waste in critical areas. Francisco Barnés, Executive Director, WRI Mexico, noted that 26 specific actions are being implemented to drive the decarbonization process through 2050.

The initiative also aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and the commitments made by the Mexican delegation at COP29. These international commitments include a target for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and participation in global initiatives such as the Declaration on Reducing Methane from Organic Waste and the COP29 Water Declaration for Climate Action.

Future Roadmap for Decarbonization

Despite the documented 44.8% reduction in power use, the technical analysis outlines a roadmap to further deepen the facility's sustainability. Proposed future measures include:

• Installing reflective window films to decrease thermal loads.

• Modernizing air conditioning equipment with high-efficiency systems.

• Integrating solar panels for clean energy generation.

• Automating building systems through smart technology.

• Conducting internal awareness campaigns for legislators and staff.

Adriana Lobo, Global Presence and Local Action Director,WRI Global, noted that the Chamber's commitment serves as a precedent for other public and private institutions. "The transformation of buildings not only reduces emissions but also improves air quality and people’s lives," Lobo stated.

Aliza Klip, Secretary of Administrative and Financial Services for the Chamber, concluded that fulfilling international agreements like the Paris Agreement depends on the proactive willingness of institutions to take action. The decarbonization of the building sector remains a critical global priority, as buildings are responsible for approximately 37% of energy-related CO₂ emissions.