The Mérida III is a key infrastructure asset in Mexico's power generation grid, located on the continent of North America. Designated as a fossil fuel electricity generation station, the facility features an installed capacity of 484 MW. Its primary operation relies on harnessing gas energy resources to generate bulk electricity. Operational management and ownership of the facility are handled by the CFE/PIE, which oversees daily maintenance and grid dispatch integration. The facility was officially connected to the commercial grid in 2010, since which it has maintained regular output, playing a structured role in domestic power supply security. In terms of domestic production capacity within Mexico, Mérida III occupies the #57 position among all operational gas power plants. Its 484 MW capacity represents a 0.74% share of Mexico's total installed gas generating capacity, which currently stands at 65,573 MW. The largest operational gas installation in Mexico is the Petacalco thermal power station with an output of 2,778 MW, making the Mérida III approximately 5.7 times smaller by comparison. Across all fuel types and electricity generation technologies country-wide, this facility accounts for 0.3418% of Mexico's aggregate generation capacity of 141,584 MW. Based on historical capacity factors characteristic of gas power plants (modeled at 40% for analysis), the facility's expected annual electricity generation is calculated at approximately 1,695,936 MWh. Applying domestic consumption statistics where an average household in Mexico consumes 3 MWh of electricity annually, this level of production is sufficient to meet the energy demands of roughly 565,312 homes. By utilizing traditional thermal power processes, the station delivers reliable dispatchable energy to the grid, supporting grid resilience during periods of low renewable resource availability and satisfying industrial base-load demands. The physical site of the station is located at geographic coordinates 20.9336° latitude and -89.6992° longitude. Analysis of local grid infrastructure shows a density of other assets within a 50-kilometer radius. These nearby facilities include the Mérida III combined cycle power station (oil-fired, 484 MW), the Mérida III combined cycle power station (gas-fired, 484 MW), the Central termoelectrica Merida II (oil-fired, 168 MW), representing a cluster of localized power assets. This geographic placement is vital for reinforcing regional distribution infrastructure and minimizing transmission line losses across this sector of Mexico.
16 years old
Mexico, North America
Location
Estimates based on Gas emission factor (490 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (45%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Gas
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
Mexico- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Mérida III Power Plant: A Key Player in Mexico's Energy Landscape
Mérida III is a significant gas-fired power plant located in the state of Yucatán, Mexico, with a total capacity of 484 megawatts (MW). Since its commissioning, it has played a crucial role in supporting the region's electricity demands and bolstering the national grid. The plant is owned and operated by the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) in partnership with the private sector entity, PIE, underscoring a collaborative effort in Mexico’s energy sector aimed at increasing efficiency and reliability.
The Mérida III power plant utilizes natural gas as its primary fuel source, which is known for its relatively lower environmental impact compared to other fossil fuels like coal or oil. Natural gas combustion emits fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants, making it a more environmentally friendly option for power generation. The plant employs advanced technologies to optimize the combustion process, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. This aligns with Mexico's broader energy policies, which emphasize the transition towards cleaner energy sources and the reduction of carbon footprints across the country.
In terms of technical specifications, Mérida III is equipped with modern gas turbines that enhance its operational efficiency. The use of combined cycle technology allows the plant to maximize energy output by utilizing the waste heat generated during the electricity production process. This capability not only improves the overall efficiency of the plant but also contributes to the reduction of fuel consumption, thereby minimizing operational costs and supporting economic sustainability.
Mérida III holds regional significance as it serves not only to meet local energy demands in Yucatán but also to provide surplus electricity to neighboring regions. The plant enhances the reliability of the electricity supply in an area that has historically faced challenges related to energy access. By ensuring a stable energy supply, Mérida III contributes to regional economic development and supports various sectors, including tourism, commerce, and industry.
Furthermore, the facility aligns with Mexico's commitment to diversifying its energy mix and reducing reliance on less environmentally friendly energy sources. The strategic integration of natural gas into the national energy landscape is a vital step towards achieving energy security and sustainability. As Mexico continues to transition towards a more sustainable energy future, the role of facilities like Mérida III will be crucial in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, thereby underpinning the country's broader energy goals.
Nearby Power Plants
Gas Power Generation: An Overview of Its Mechanisms, Benefits, and Future Prospects
Gas power generation is a significant component of the global energy landscape, characterized by the use of natural gas to produce electricity. This process typically involves either gas turbines or combined cycle gas plants. In a gas turbine, compressed air is mixed with natural gas and ignited, producing high-temperature exhaust gases that spin a turbine connected to a generator. Combined cycle plants enhance efficiency by utilizing both gas and steam turbines. After the gas turbine generates electricity, the waste heat is used to produce steam, which drives a steam turbine, thereby maximizing energy extraction from the fuel.
See Incorrect or Missing Data?
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.