Energy transition in México: solar power as a sustainable solution

The year 2024 marked a pivotal moment for both the climate and global energy systems. The heatwaves that swept across the planet not only broke temperature records but also pushed energy demand to unprecedented levels. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), soaring temperatures accounted for 20% of the global rise in electricity and gas consumption and were responsible for half of the increase in CO₂ emissions. Most concerning of all: the world had to fall back on coal to meet this growing demand—reviving one of the dirtiest sources of energy.

National context
The effects of global warming are far from evenly distributed. In Mexico’s case, the impact has been especially severe. A study conducted by the National Autonomous University of México (UNAM) reveals that the country’s average temperature has risen by 3.2°C over the last century, well above the global average of 2°C. In 2024 alone, the national average temperature increased by 2.14°C compared to the previous year, marking an unprecedented leap in the country’s recent climate history.

This rise in temperature puts added pressure on the national electrical grid due to increased demand for air conditioning and refrigeration. Beyond that, it directly threatens agriculture, public health, and ecosystems putting the well being of millions of people and countless species at serious risk.

Solar energy
In the face of this crisis, the energy transition is not optional, it is an urgent necessity. Renewable energy, particularly solar power, stands out as one of the most effective tools to tackle the dual challenge of climate change and rising energy demand.

It’s worth noting that México enjoys exceptional solar potential: the country receives between 5 and 6 kWh/m² of solar radiation per day across most of its territory. This makes México one of the most promising countries in the world for generating electricity from sunlight.

According to Mexico’s Secretariat of Energy (SENER), the country’s installed solar capacity grew by more than 20% in 2023, driven largely by residential and commercial sectors.

More and more households and businesses are installing solar panels to reduce both their electricity bills and their carbon footprint. Additionally, the cost of solar technology has dropped by 85% over the past decade, making it significantly more affordable and accessible than ever before.