Introduction to the Guidelines for Mixed Development Schemes by CFE
On January 28, 2026, the Guidelines for Mixed Development Schemes of the State-owned Enterprise, the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), were published in the Official Gazette of the Federation. These guidelines outline four methods for private entities to execute new energy generation or storage projects in coordination with CFE and the government’s binding planning regarding the grid.
Content of the Guidelines
The guidelines establish an internal framework for CFE to develop mixed development schemes for electric energy generation. They also regulate the process of drafting selection bases, technical and operational terms, contract models, financial models, and general project terms for approval.
Project Selection Methods
- CFE-determined projects: CFE will conduct competitions, requests, or proposals for private entities to develop specific generation projects.
- Government requirements: The government will request new generation capacity or electricity generation technology in one or more regions.
- Energy storage capacity requirements: The government will demand new energy storage capacity or related products.
- Migration to the Sector Electricity Law: Private generators can transition projects under the Public Service Energy Electricity Law to the current Sector Electricity Law as mixed development schemes, partnering with CFE.
“Generally, participant selection should occur through a public tender, with exceptions made through restricted invitation, competitive bidding process, or direct award, according to the Bidding Terms or Proposal Request,” CFE explained.
Payment Methods
Payments within projects can be executed through trusts, partnerships, commercial enterprises, or any other legal or financial vehicle.
Technical and Operational Project Alignment
The technical and operational definition of the project must align with the principles and criteria applicable to the National Electric System and the Wholesale Electricity Market. When presenting a project, information such as location, design standards, engineering and construction specifications, central specifications and associated infrastructure, required permits and authorizations, interconnection and compliance with the Grid Code, execution plan, testing and commissioning, operation and maintenance plan, and technology update mechanisms (when efficient and convenient) must be included.
Relevance of CFE and the Guidelines
The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) is Mexico’s state-owned electric utility company, responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity across the country. As a critical component of Mexico’s energy sector, CFE’s collaboration with private entities through these guidelines can lead to advancements in technology, infrastructure, and energy generation capacity.
Impact on the Energy Sector
These guidelines encourage private sector participation in energy generation and storage projects, fostering competition and innovation. By allowing private entities to contribute their expertise and resources, the energy sector can benefit from improved infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and increased generation capacity. This collaboration ultimately aims to strengthen Mexico’s electricity system, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for its growing population.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the four methods for private sector collaboration on CFE projects? The four methods include CFE-determined projects, government-requested capacity or technology, energy storage capacity requirements, and migration of existing projects to the Sector Electricity Law as mixed development schemes.
- How are payments structured within these projects? Payments can be made through trusts, partnerships, commercial enterprises, or other legal and financial vehicles.
- How do these guidelines ensure alignment with the national electric system and market? Project proposals must include information on location, design standards, engineering specifications, required permits, interconnection compliance, execution plans, operation and maintenance plans, and technology update mechanisms.
