Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that potable water will not be used for gas production. She reiterated that a group of experts will be presented next week to help make the best decision, as it would be “irresponsible” to continue exporting natural gas. Sheinbaum explained that these meetings are part of a usual strategy for dialogue with different economic actors to learn about their vision for Mexico. Finally, the head of state made it clear that the objective is not to repeat past models focused on export, but to strengthen internal consumption and strategic sectors such as electricity generation, petrochemicals, and fertilizers. The proposed route seeks to balance the transition to clean energies with the immediate need to guarantee energy supply, in an increasingly uncertain global context. The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, outlined her vision for the country's energy by recognizing a critical point: Mexico is 75% dependent on the import of natural gas, mainly from the United States, which represents a risk to national sovereignty. “Mexico depends on imports for 75% of its natural gas consumption. If we continue like this, we will import more and more natural gas,” the head of government warned while explaining that this energy source will continue to be key in electricity generation due to its efficiency and continuous operation, but it will not be the only bet. In this sense, she emphasized that her administration will promote a mixed model where natural gas functions as a base, but with an accelerated expansion of clean energies. “And a fundamental part is energy sovereignty,” she stated. Under this logic, the potential of national gas, both conventional and non-conventional, is being analyzed, although she made it clear that models such as traditional fracking used in other countries will not be replicated. Scientific evaluation before any decision The president announced the formation of a group of specialists that will be key in decision-making. “We are going to increase solar energy, wind energy, geothermal energy, renewable energy sources, and further increase the efficiency of hydropower,” she affirmed. Energy sovereignty, the axis of the plan The central proposal of the federal government revolves around reducing vulnerability to external factors, such as climate crises or variations in the international energy market. Sheinbaum recalled recent episodes, such as frosts in the United States that drove up gas prices, to justify the urgency of strengthening self-sufficiency. This technical-scientific committee will be made up of experts from institutions such as UNAM, IPN, and the country's research centers. “It would be very irresponsible on our part to say: we continue to import and see no other alternative,” she emphasized, stating that any determination will be based on scientific evidence and not on political criteria. This group will evaluate whether it is viable to exploit non-conventional gas in Mexico under conditions that reduce environmental impact, particularly in water use and waste management. Gas yes, but with environmental limits Within the strategy, the federal government proposes that, if gas exploitation moves forward, the use of non-potable or treated water be prioritized, as well as the recycling of up to 80% of the fluids used. In addition, it will seek to implement less aggressive technologies with lower ecological impact, distancing itself from highly questioned practices in other countries. Response to criticism from BlackRock During her message, Sheinbaum also rejected reports linking her meetings with the BlackRock investment fund to a supposed push for fracking. “It's laughable,” she said to deny that any agreement exists. “In the world in which we live, Mexico must guarantee its sovereignty.”
