New Power Plants and Electrical Modernization in Yucatán Ensure Reliable Energy Supply
The Mexican state of Yucatán is moving towards energy self-sufficiency with the launch of new power plants by the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and upgrades to its electrical infrastructure, according to a joint press conference by CFE’s General Director Emilia Calleja Alor and Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena.
CFE’s Commitment to Energy Supply in Southeast Mexico
Following instructions from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Calleja Alor emphasized that the CFE is dedicated to ensuring energy availability in the southeastern region, making Yucatán a priority state in this strategy.
Increased Energy Generation Capacity
- The new power plants, Centrales Ciclo Combinado Mérida and Ciclo Combinado Riviera Maya – Valladolid, will boost Yucatán’s energy generation capacity by 38.2%.
- With these new plants, the total capacity, including transmission links, will reach approximately 5,486 megawatts.
- Plant Mérida IV will contribute an additional 500 megawatts to the system, adding to the 1,853 megawatts generated by other CFE plants in Mérida and Valladolid, as well as the 1,306 megawatts from private producers.
This brings the total available capacity in the region to 3,159 megawatts, surpassing the peninsula’s maximum historical demand of 2,992 megawatts. The average during peak hours ranges from 2,714 to 2,980 megawatts.
Governor Díaz Mena’s Perspective on Energy Access
Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena stressed that reliable electricity access is a right, not a privilege. He highlighted the importance of stable energy supply for improving the quality of life in Yucatán, supporting local businesses, and fostering economic development.
Díaz Mena explained that the region’s electrical issues stem from decades of neglect and insufficient planning, leaving the infrastructure unable to meet Yucatán’s and neighboring Quintana Roo’s rapid growth.
He compared the electrical system to a patient requiring immediate and long-term care, emphasizing the need for both urgent treatment and preventive measures to address future complications.
Upcoming Energy Initiatives
Governor Díaz Mena previewed the upcoming “Aliados por la Energía” (Allies for Energy) strategy to promote efficient energy use.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main goal of these upgrades? Yucatán aims to achieve energy self-sufficiency with new CFE power plants and infrastructure modernization.
- Who is responsible for ensuring energy supply in the southeast? The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) is committed to providing reliable energy access under instructions from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.
- How much will energy generation capacity increase in Yucatán? The new power plants will boost Yucatán’s energy generation capacity by 38.2%, reaching approximately 5,486 megawatts.
- What is the current maximum historical demand for energy in the peninsula? The maximum historical demand for energy in the Yucatán peninsula is 2,992 megawatts.
- What initiatives does Governor Díaz Mena plan to promote energy efficiency? The “Aliados por la Energía” (Allies for Energy) strategy will encourage efficient energy use.
