DEVELOPMENT OF LNG INFRASTRUCTURE IN MEXICO DEVELOPPEMENT DE L'INFRASTRUCTURE DU GNL AU MEXIQUE

摘要

Between 1992 and 2001 the demand for natural gas in Mexico grew by 4.7% annually, and it is expected to continue to grow at a rate of 7.4% annually in the next 10 years. Natural Gas demand growth in Mexico, prices over 3.00 US dollar per Million of British Thermal Unit (MBTU) in North America, together with a reduction in the production costs of LNG worldwide, have made the construction of LNG terminals a feasible solution to increase the supply of natural gas in the North American region. The Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) has had to adapt the regulatory framework to allow the construction of LNG terminals in Mexico. This paper has the objective of presenting the current development of LNG infrastructure in Mexico and describing the regulatory principals regarding safety and economic-commercial issues. The regulatory framework introduced by the CRE has been well accepted by private participants. On April 30, 2003 the Commission granted the first permit for a project to be developed in Baja California, and 3 more permits were granted in July and August of this year. Currently the CRE is evaluating a proposal to build an offshore LNG Terminal in Baja California and more applications are expected in the next six months for other terminals in the Pacific. As part of an integrated North American energy market, Mexico has decided to diversify its sources of natural gas imports and expand the supply of natural gas in the region, with the objective of achieving price stability in the long term. Undoubtedly, Mexico's experience with LNG can be summarized as a success story.