Mexican Data Centers Drive Fossil-Fuel Reliance
A Thomson Reuters Foundation investigation published Dec. 23, 2025, found Mexico's rapid data-center expansion is relying on diesel, natural gas and oil due to insufficient renewable capacity. Queretaro faces roughly 200 MW demand while the sector expects 1.5 GW by 2030, straining transmission and prompting firms like Microsoft to run multiple gas generators. The reliance raises local pollution and stresses grid modernization plans.
Key Points
- 1Finds data centers in Queretaro and nationwide increasingly use diesel and gas generators amid renewable shortfall
- 2Highlights that sector expects 1.5 GW by 2030, consuming about 5% of planned new capacity
- 3Advises operators to invest in hybrid power, battery storage, and transmission upgrades for reliability
Scoring Rationale
Thomson Reuters investigation with official sources highlights industry impact; limited novelty beyond ongoing data-center energy debates.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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