CFE Power Outage During Mexico Match Sparks Outrage in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — A power outage that hit the northwestern part of the city during Mexico’s World Cup match against South Korea was a planned cut by the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), though the utility failed to notify residents in advance, officials said Friday.

Luis Herrera Quian, the city’s general secretary, said in an interview that CFE explained the interruption was necessary to replace aging components in the electrical grid nearing the end of their useful life.

“To do this, they have to make temporary cuts to avoid collapses that could lead to outages lasting many hours,” Herrera said.

The official acknowledged that the timing was poorly chosen by the company, as it did not take into account the national team’s match.

“Many families were gathered together, and that’s when the cut happened,” he lamented.

The municipality has asked CFE to provide advance notice for any future planned outages, and hopes the request will be heeded.

Herrera noted that the northwestern area of Playa del Carmen is where the city is currently experiencing urban growth, which places greater demand on the electrical network.

Regarding public discontent, the secretary said they have already held meetings with residents and are following up on agreements reached to prevent possible social unrest over the issue.