New $100M Power Plant Boosts Quintana Roo Energy Supply

Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — Construction of a new combined cycle natural gas power plant will begin by the end of this year in Puerto Morelos, with a generation capacity of 208 megawatts, covering approximately 6% of Quintana Roo’s energy consumption. Ari Adler Brotman, director of the Institute for the Development and Financing of Quintana Roo (Idefin), confirmed the project, which represents a strategic step toward the state’s energy autonomy. Currently, Quintana Roo produces only 300 megawatts against a demand of five gigawatts.

$100 Million Investment for a Key Project

The new plant will involve an estimated investment of $100 million, with the Quintana Roo government holding a stake in the project. The exact percentage remains under negotiation and will depend on whether the plant is built on land or water—a decision being coordinated with the Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (Apiqroo) and federal environmental agencies. The project is currently undergoing the permitting process for local and federal environmental approvals.

Impact on Energy Consumption

Ari Adler Brotman emphasized that while the plant will be physically located in Puerto Morelos, its impact will be statewide. It is expected to generate roughly 6% of Quintana Roo’s total energy demand, nearly doubling the region’s current local production.

"This plant is a vital step. It will allow us to increase our local energy generation and reduce vulnerability to blackouts," said the Idefin director.

Rapid Installation and Operation by 2026

A key advantage of the project is the use of pre-fabricated infrastructure, which will expedite construction. If permitting proceeds as scheduled, the plant is expected to begin operations by mid-2026. The facility will occupy approximately 350 hectares and utilize combined cycle technology, known for its energy efficiency.

Quintana Roo’s High Demand and Low Energy Production

According to Quintana Roo’s Secretariat of Ecology and Environment (SEMA), the Yucatán Peninsula has recorded the highest growth in energy demand nationwide since 2021, with an average annual increase of 6.7%. However, it remains one of the regions producing the least energy, generating only 3.49% of its current consumption.

With the launch of this new plant, Quintana Roo will advance toward energy autonomy and strengthen supply stability across the region.