Mexico is considering tapping into unconventional natural gas sources through hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” to reduce its reliance on imports from the United States, which currently supply 75 percent of the nation’s natural gas consumption.
Fracking Under Consideration
President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo stated that the decision centers on “sovereignty, the development of the country, the environmental future, future generations…but also the viability and development of the country.” The move comes as Mexico seeks to bolster its energy independence.
Energy Secretary Luz Elena González explained that the consideration of fracking is due to the country’s high dependence on imported shale gas, which is also extracted through hydraulic fracturing. Currently, Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) produces 2.3 billion cubic feet of natural gas, while 6.8 billion cubic feet are imported.
According to Víctor Rodríguez, director of Pemex, Mexico has an estimated 83,138 million cubic feet of conventional gas reserves and 141,494 million cubic feet of unconventional reserves. Pemex plans to reach a production of 4.49 billion cubic feet of natural gas by 2030, potentially increasing to 8.6 billion cubic feet within the next 10 years with the inclusion of unconventional sources.
Scientific Review Planned
President Sheinbaum announced the formation of a scientific committee comprised of experts in water management, sustainable exploitation, geology and environmental science. This committee will evaluate the viability of fracking and present recommendations within two months. The committee members are scheduled to be presented next Wednesday.
The President clarified that the evaluation will focus on technologies that minimize environmental damage, such as the use of less harmful chemicals and recycled saltwater. She noted that former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador previously opposed the use of hydraulic fracturing.
Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of natural gas for both industry and electricity production, stating, “We are importing a lot of natural gas, and if we do nothing, we will import more and more.” Seven combined cycle plants are set to open soon, with plans for five more, all relying on natural gas as their primary fuel source.
While acknowledging that eliminating gas imports entirely will be hard, President Sheinbaum indicated it could take “10, 15 years” to develop domestic production to a significant level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico currently importing natural gas?
Yes, Mexico is importing 6.8 billion cubic feet of natural gas, representing 75 percent of the country’s total consumption.
What types of natural gas reserves does Mexico have?
Mexico has both conventional and unconventional natural gas reserves. Conventional reserves are estimated at 83,138 million cubic feet, while unconventional reserves are estimated at 141,494 million cubic feet.
What is the purpose of the scientific committee?
The scientific committee will evaluate the viability of fracking and explore technologies that could minimize environmental damage, presenting its recommendations within two months.
How might Mexico balance its energy needs with environmental concerns as it considers expanding its natural gas production?
