The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), Mexico’s state-owned energy utility, has unveiled an exciting plan to expand its solar energy initiatives, aiming for a remarkable total production and storage capacity of 1.5 gigawatts.
With an investment of 30 billion Mexican pesos (approximately $1.62 billion), CFE’s flagship endeavor includes a 580 megawatt expansion of the Puerto Peñasco solar complex located in Sonora. This expansion will elevate its capacity to 1 gigawatt, solidifying its status as Latin America’s largest solar farm.
Sonora stands out as one of Mexico’s sunniest states, basking in an impressive average of 300 to 350 days of sunlight each year, making it an ideal location for solar power generation.
The expansion will also introduce battery energy storage, which is expected to account for 30% of the total capacity. All phases of this ambitious project are projected to be completed by the end of 2028. “We are delivering on a strategic objective: ensuring the country’s energy sovereignty through orderly, clean, and sufficient planning,” expressed Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum during the official announcement.
In addition to Puerto Peñasco, two more sites in Coahuila will contribute an additional 556 megawatts to the national grid. Rio Escondido will add 180 megawatts, while Carbón II will contribute 376 megawatts, with both facilities also incorporating 30% battery storage capacity.
Furthermore, CFE is exploring three additional renewable energy projects in the states of Durango, Quintana Roo, and Guanajuato. Emilia Calleja, CEO of CFE, explained, “We are working through tripartite technical committees to review the technical characteristics and the status of prior permitting for each project. This is a binding planning exercise that will allow for an orderly start to development.”
CFE is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Energy (SENER) and the National Infrastructure Fund (FONADIN) to bring these projects to fruition.
As energy prices have surged due to recent geopolitical tensions, Mexico’s potential for solar energy shines brighter than ever. The population is projected to grow from 132 million to a peak of 150 million by 2050, with around 97% expected to reside in urban areas, driving an increasing demand for energy.
With a rapidly expanding middle class now surpassing the number of those living in poverty, the need for sustainable energy solutions is more pressing than ever. Given Mexico’s abundant sunshine and its status as the world’s largest silver producer—an essential component in photovoltaic panel production—solar energy emerges as a key solution for the nation’s energy needs during times of high oil prices.
This initiative marks a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable Mexico, paving the way for a brighter future.
