Introduction to the Energy Poverty Index in Jalisco
Jalisco, a state in Mexico, is set to become the first in the country to have an energy poverty index. This initiative, developed by ITESO (Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Occidente) and UdeG (Universidad de Guadalajara), in collaboration with companies and experts, aims to measure the energy needs of Jaliscienses and ensure energy sufficiency for the entire population. The Secretary of Development Energy and Sustainability, Manuel Herrera Vega, announced this development to El Economista.
Understanding Energy Poverty
Energy poverty refers to the inability of households to afford adequate energy services for an acceptable living standard. This index will help identify regions requiring more attention regarding energy poverty and guide efforts to address these issues. Herrera Vega emphasized that measuring energy justice is crucial for achieving it, as developed countries already do.
Collaborative Efforts and Timeline
The energy poverty index is a joint effort by ITESO, UdeG, relevant companies, and experts. The project is expected to be completed this year, providing a comprehensive map of energy poverty in Jalisco. The data will help authorities target areas with the most significant energy needs and implement policies to alleviate these issues.
Addressing Energy Access in Jalisco
According to Herrera Vega, approximately 40,000 households in Jalisco lack full access to energy resources. The state government plans to address this issue by installing energy networks in areas without electricity and implementing isolated systems where necessary, especially in rural regions.
The official highlighted that providing a family with solar panels, batteries, and other clean energy solutions can significantly improve their energy access. He emphasized that measuring and identifying areas in need is the first step before implementing public policies to tackle energy poverty.
Prioritizing Clean Energy for Investment Attraction
Another priority for the Secretary of Development Energy and Sustainability is ensuring a reliable supply of clean energy to attract investments. Herrera Vega explained that, as Jalisco continues to be an attractive location for businesses, energy availability has become a fundamental condition.
He mentioned a McKinsey study indicating that 70% of potential investors prioritize energy access before other factors like connectivity, infrastructure, and security. Furthermore, corporations now require a minimum percentage of renewable energy consumption, with Mexico legally mandating 30%.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the energy poverty index? The energy poverty index measures the energy needs of households in Jalisco to ensure energy sufficiency for the entire population.
- Who is developing this index? The index is being developed by ITESO, UdeG, relevant companies, and energy experts in collaboration.
- When will the index be ready? The energy poverty index is expected to be completed this year.
- Why is energy access crucial for investment attraction? Energy availability has become a fundamental condition for businesses considering Jalisco as an investment location, surpassing other factors like connectivity and infrastructure.
- What percentage of energy must be renewable for corporations? Corporations now require a minimum of 30% renewable energy consumption, as mandated by Mexican law.
