Today, Mexico continues to push forward with sustainable development, and a prime example of this is a pioneering project that aims to convert water into electricity. The hydroelectric project of combined cycle is an innovative endeavor that seeks to harness an impressive 2,000 liters of water per second. This initiative is part of Mexico’s broader strategy to expand its mix of renewable energy sources, aligning with the objectives set by President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Convert water into electricity: a key project for energy development
Undoubtedly, an energy project of this magnitude is set to make a significant contribution to Mexico’s energy landscape, particularly in the region of Jalisco. According to Manuel Herrera, the Secretary of Sustainable Energy Development, the construction of this hydroelectric plant represents a crucial step forward in the transition to cleaner energies. Herrera highlighted that the project involves a mixed participation of both government and private investment, underscoring the collaborative effort to drive sustainable development.
The project is slated to benefit the Jalisco region, with the chosen location being an area where the system can utilize the treated waters of the El Ahogado dam. This approach allows for a much more efficient use of water resources without compromising the local drinking water supply. The charrería is currently in its final treatment phase, and if successful, it would be a significant boon for Jalisco, offering benefits that few other initiatives have provided.
Environmental opposition and communication challenge
Despite the potential benefits of this plant, some environmental groups have expressed strong opposition. According to Herrera, this resistance is partly due to a lack of communication and misinformation. It’s essential to clarify that the hydroelectric plant will operate using treated waters and will not affect any natural source of drinking water. The debate surrounding the environmental impact of hydroelectric projects is not new in Mexico, but this particular plant is presented as a sustainable alternative, as it leverages water flows that would otherwise not be utilized for energy production.
The environmental concerns and the need for clear communication underscore the challenges faced by such projects. However, the emphasis on sustainability and the efficient use of resources highlight the potential for this project to contribute positively to Mexico’s energy sector.
Juanacatlán: a place with history and energy
The municipality of Juanacatlán, where the plant is planned, has a rich history intertwined with energy production. At the end of the 19th century, the first hydroelectric plant in Mexico was built in the famous Juanacatlán waterfall, marking a significant milestone. This area has since become a reference point for electricity production from water. Juanacatlán also boasts a pre-Hispanic and colonial past, with its name interpreted in various ways, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.
The proposed hydroelectric plant adds to the efforts to sustainably harness the water resources of the area, aiming to generate clean and healthy energy. This aligns with the global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, making Juanacatlán a source of life and a symbol of Mexico’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
It is not new: something similar happened in the past and the project was not carried out
In 2019, a similar project was announced but ultimately not pursued. The construction of a thermoelectric plant in Juanacatlán was cancelled due to environmental concerns, as it would have endangered the state’s environmental commitments. The plant, which would have been built by the Spanish company Fisterra with an investment of $759 million, was expected to increase toxic emissions by 24%, affecting Mexico’s decarbonization objectives by 2050.
The decision to cancel the project was supported by the mayor of Juanacatlán at the time, Adriana Cortés González, who prioritized health over investment. The current project’s outcome is uncertain, with ongoing opposition from some sectors, while the Jalisco government and involved companies believe it will mark a significant turning point in the area’s energy production.
