Introduction to the CNE and its Relevance
The Comisión Nacional de Energía (CNE) has commenced its operations following the publication of its internal regulation in the Official Gazette of the Federation. As the new regulatory body for the electricity sector and downstream hydrocarbon activities in the country, the CNE replaces the Comisión Reguladora de Energía (CRE) and assumes a budget of 199.8 million pesos for the year 2025.
Background on Key Figures
Juan Carlos Solís, the former head of the Industrial Transformation Policies Unit within the Secretaría de Energía, has been appointed as the Director General of CNE. His decisions will be made in collaboration with a Technical Committee, comprising officials from various departments such as Energy, Economy, and Environment, along with CNE members.
CNE Structure and Responsibilities
In addition to the Director General, the CNE will consist of five units: Administration and Finance, Legal Affairs, Electricity, Hydrocarbons, and Verification.
- Administration and Finance: Handles financial management and resource allocation.
- Legal Affairs: Ensures compliance with laws and regulations related to energy activities.
- Electricity: Oversees the electricity sector, including generation, transmission, and distribution.
- Hydrocarbons: Manages downstream hydrocarbon activities, including refining, transportation, and marketing.
- Verification: Ensures adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards.
CNE’s Authority and Operations
The CNE’s transitional regulations stipulate that it must issue an agreement specifying its address and operating hours. It can also develop programs, strategies, or guidelines for handling related permits, which must be published in the Official Gazette of the Federation. Despite these requirements, the CNE began operations the day after its regulation was published.
CNE’s Expansion and Collaboration
The CNE may establish state or regional offices as deemed necessary for carrying out its responsibilities, subject to annual budget allocations from the Secretaría de Energía.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Comisión Nacional de Energía (CNE)? The CNE is the new regulatory body for the electricity sector and downstream hydrocarbon activities in Mexico, replacing the Comisión Reguladora de Energía (CRE).
- Who is Juan Carlos Solís, and what is his role in the CNE? Juan Carlos Solís was previously the head of the Industrial Transformation Policies Unit within the Secretaría de Energía. He is now the Director General of CNE, making decisions in collaboration with a Technical Committee.
- What are the five units of the CNE? The CNE consists of Administration and Finance, Legal Affairs, Electricity, Hydrocarbons, and Verification units.
- Can the CNE establish additional offices? Yes, the CNE may create state or regional offices as needed for its operations, depending on annual budget allocations from the Secretaría de Energía.
