Alejandro Armenta Fulfills Campaign Promise by Inaugurating Solar Panel Factory “Tonalli” in Puebla

Web Editor

June 24, 2025

a group of people standing behind a ribbon cutting a ribbon at a ribbon cutting ceremony in a buildi

Background and Relevance

Alejandro Armenta, the Governor of Puebla, has demonstrated his commitment to turning his past initiatives into state policy. His efforts align with the strategy of President Claudia Sheinbaum, highlighting his dedication to transformative productive change with social justice.

Inauguration and Recognition

Diana Aurora León Cuadra, the head of the Energy Sector and Furniture & Toy Industry, represented Marcelo Ebrard, the Secretary of Economy. She bestowed the “Hecho en México” (Made in Mexico) seal upon the Tonalli solar panel factory, acknowledging it as a historic milestone for Mexico’s first solar panel manufacturing industry.

Benefits and Impact

  • Reduced electricity costs by 80% for educational institutions and rural areas.
  • Creation of jobs and promotion of innovation to address climate change challenges.
  • Emphasis on technological sovereignty and self-sufficiency.

Governor Armenta’s Vision

Armenta emphasized that energy development in Puebla is a state policy, not a fad. He aims to achieve technological sovereignty and empower future generations through this initiative.

Addressing Energy Access

The Governor highlighted that 800 schools in Puebla lack electricity due to various circumstances. To rectify this, 400 solar panels will be installed this year and another 400 by 2026, ensuring all schools have access to electricity without additional costs for teachers and parents.

Collaborative Efforts

Rodolfo Camacho, Director of the Energy Agency, explained that the solar panel factory is a result of a unique partnership between government, private sector, and migrant communities.

  • Promotion of a green economy
  • Positioning Puebla as a leader in renewable energy
  • Creation of green jobs and strengthening local economy

Support from State Officials

Celina Peña Guzmán, Secretary of Science, Humanities, Technology, and Innovation, praised Armenta’s comprehensive vision for inclusive technology, guiding Mexico and Puebla towards technological sovereignty.

Bernardo Álvarez Ibarra, an entrepreneur involved in the project, emphasized the importance of meticulous planning and collaboration among all stakeholders. The factory will produce 200,000 panels annually and create 200 direct jobs along with over a thousand indirect positions.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is the significance of the Tonalli solar panel factory? The factory represents a historic milestone for Mexico’s first solar panel manufacturing industry, promoting technological sovereignty and self-sufficiency.
  • Who are the key figures involved in this project? The project involves Governor Alejandro Armenta, President Claudia Sheinbaum, Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, Diana Aurora León Cuadra, Rodolfo Camacho, Celina Peña Guzmán, and entrepreneur Bernardo Álvarez Ibarra.
  • What are the benefits of this factory for Puebla? The factory will reduce electricity costs by 80% for educational institutions and rural areas, create jobs, promote innovation, and address climate change challenges.