Recently, the Mexican Ministry of Energy announced a new regulation mandating that all newly built wind and solar PV projects must be equipped with energy storage systems accounting for at least 30% of their capacity, with a minimum storage duration of three hours.
Why are solar energy projects growing in Mexico?
This affordability is driving the expansion of solar energy projects across the nation, such as the new 500 MW solar panel production line recently commissioned by Solarever. Mexico's wind energy sector is also experiencing rapid growth.
Should energy storage be a priority in Mexico?
If energy storage deployment is considered a priority in the following years, Mexico could accelerate investments through a mix of storage procurement targets and financial incentives. A strong storage market can also be built over time by offering rebates, loans, investment grants, tax credits or other financial incentives.
How much does solar energy cost in Mexico?
The solar energy market in Mexico is burgeoning, with significant investments enhancing its infrastructure. According to Mordor Intelligence, the average levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) projects is approximately USD $0.049 per kWh, making it a competitive alternative to traditional energy sources.
Should energy storage be regulated in Mexico?
5.2.1. Mexico Energy storage appears scarcely in Mexican legislation and the few regulations that mention it leave the door open to potentially consider EST as either generation assets or transmission and distribution assets . If EST were regulated as generation assets, they could operate under a regime of free competition.
Mexico must set a legal definition of energy storage and clear market regulations. As a late mover, Mexico can select projects with less technological uncertainty. Procurement targets accelerate the formation of a storage market in the short term. Financial incentives are necessary to accelerate investment in energy storage.
Will Mexico start energy storage RD&D projects?
The roadmap suggests developing regulations and promoting research, development and demonstration (RD&D) projects, but these proposals have not yet been adopted as a formal policy guideline. Nevertheless, Mexico is expected to start energy storage RD&D projects in the next years.