Overview
Poza Rica is a 117 MW diesel power plant in Veracruz, Mexico, operated by CFE. It plays a role in regional electricity supply using oil as primary fuel.
Poza Rica is a diesel power plant located in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, with a capacity of 117 megawatts. It is owned and operated by the state-owned utility Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), which manages a large portion of Mexico's power generation infrastructure. The plant's operational status is active, contributing to the country's energy mix. As a diesel-fired facility, Poza Rica operates using oil as its primary fuel. Diesel plants are typically used for peaking power or in areas with limited grid connectivity. In Mexico, power generation is regulated by the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) and the Ministry of Energy (SENER), with environmental oversight from the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA). Emissions from diesel combustion include CO2, SOx, and NOx, subject to national emission standards. The plant's location in Veracruz, a state with significant industrial activity and population centers, underscores its role in meeting local electricity demand. While specific environmental impact data is not detailed, diesel plants generally have higher carbon intensity compared to natural gas or renewable sources. The facility's capacity of 117 MW places it in the medium-scale range for diesel power plants in Mexico.
Environmental context
The Poza Rica plant uses oil as fuel, which results in higher CO2, SOx, and NOx emissions per MWh compared to natural gas or renewable sources. Its location in Veracruz, a region with industrial and urban areas, means emissions may affect local air quality. Diesel plants typically have lower efficiency than combined cycle gas turbines. Regulatory compliance with Mexican emission standards is expected.
Frequently asked questions
The Poza Rica power plant is located in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, near the city of Poza Rica. Its coordinates are approximately 20.5264° N, -97.4903° W.
The Poza Rica plant uses oil (diesel) as its primary fuel. It is classified as a diesel power plant with a capacity of 117 megawatts.
The Poza Rica power plant is owned and operated by Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), the state-owned electric utility in Mexico.
Diesel power plants in Mexico must comply with emission standards set by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) and are enforced by PROFEPA. Regulations cover limits for SOx, NOx, and particulate matter.
As a 117 MW diesel plant, Poza Rica provides peaking power or supports grid stability in the Veracruz region. It is part of CFE's generation fleet, which includes a mix of fossil fuel and renewable plants.