CFE’s New Plan Brings Power to Tulum’s Underserved Areas

Tulum, Quintana Roo — A pilot electrification project has begun in three irregular settlements in Tulum: Tumben Kiin, Nassin, and Arrecifes. The initiative is a collaboration between the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and the Pluricultural Ethnic Committee of Tulum, aiming to provide electricity to families currently lacking individual contracts and formal infrastructure.

Collective Metering Model Proposed

The plan introduces a collective metering system to distribute consumption equitably. According to Atilano Arana Rejón, president of the Pluricultural Ethnic Committee, general meters will be installed at strategic points. The total recorded consumption will be divided proportionally among connected households. For example, if a neighborhood’s consumption totals 1,000 pesos and ten families are connected, each would pay 100 pesos.

The project also includes auxiliary meters for small businesses to improve cost control and prevent neighborhood disputes. Unlike traditional schemes, this model does not impose penalties for excessive consumption. The base collective rate is estimated at 0.98 pesos per kilowatt, though the final amount remains under discussion.

Three-Year Pilot with Expansion Potential

The pilot program will run for three years. If successful, it could be replicated in other irregular settlements in Tulum, including Sacbé, Yax Balam, Arrecife 2, San Miguelito, Lakin, 2 de Octubre, and La Reserva.

The project stems from negotiations initiated in February 2024 with the federal government. Its goal is to integrate marginalized areas into the national electricity system formally and transparently, without intermediaries. Arana Rejón emphasized the importance of ensuring access to basic services for all communities in Tulum.