Introduction to Claudia Sheinbaum’s Administration and CFE’s Progress
During the first year of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration, the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) initiated a 1,741 megawatt (MW) electricity generation capacity, announced Emilia Calleja Alor, the general director of the electric company. This progress was shared with lawmakers during her presentation of Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s First Governance Report.
New Power Plants and Hydroelectric Repotenation
Calleja Alor mentioned that three combined-cycle power plants (Salamanca I, Villa de Reyes, and Mérida IV) and the repotentiating of three hydroelectric plants (Zimapán, Minas, and La Villita) have either started operations or are nearing completion. This new capacity is equivalent to 8% of the 2030 expansion target set by CFE, which is 22,000 MW.
CFE’s Long-term Capacity Expansion Plans
By 2030, the Sheinbaum administration aims to add approximately 29,000 MW of capacity. This includes 22,000 MW planned by CFE, along with 6,400 MW of wind and solar energy to be built by the private sector. Currently, private generation accounts for 29,344 MW and is expected to expand by at least 6,400 MW.
Second-Year Governance Plans
Regarding the second year of governance, Calleja Alor explained that four planned power plants (Tula II, Salamanca II, Altamira, and Mazatlán) will be constructed following the Sener’s guidance. Additionally, a new internal combustion power plant will be built in Los Cabos, Baja California.
- These new power plants will add 2,823 MW of capacity, exceeding the 1,000 MW added between October 2024 and August 2025.
Thermosolar Power Plants in Baja California Sur
Furthermore, Calleja Alor mentioned the plan to construct two thermosolar power plants in Baja California Sur, with a combined generation capacity of 800 MW and an investment of $800 million.
Annual Capacity Addition for 2030 Target
To meet the CFE’s 2030 target of 22,000 MW, a steady annual addition of approximately 3,666 MW is required.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the CFE, and why is it important? The Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) is Mexico’s state-owned electric utility company responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity. Its progress is crucial for ensuring a stable power supply across the country.
- Who is Claudia Sheinbaum, and why is her administration relevant? Claudia Sheinbaum is the current President of Mexico City and serves as the Head of the Federal Government’s delegation for the implementation of national development projects. Her administration’s plans, including those related to energy generation, impact the entire country.
- What is the significance of the 22,000 MW capacity target for CFE by 2030? This target represents the planned expansion of electricity generation capacity to meet growing energy demands in Mexico. Achieving this goal will ensure a reliable power supply and support the country’s economic growth.
