Mexico plans to reduce its energy dependence by developing hydraulic fracturing technology, which is criticized for its potential to extract hydrocarbons. Leftist President Claudia Sheinbaum announced this plan on Thursday. Hydraulic fracturing, also known as “fracking,” involves extracting oil and gas trapped in porous shale rock by injecting high-pressure fluids to fracture it.
The industry grew significantly in the 2000s and 2010s in the United States, with President Donald Trump being a supporter of this technology. Environmentalists have long argued that hydraulic fracturing causes earthquakes, poses pollution risks, and has low energy production potential.
Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico’s need to ensure its energy sovereignty, especially since 75% of the gas consumed for electricity production is imported, mainly from the United States. Mexico has significant unconventional gas deposits, primarily in the northern region. This decision breaks with the fracking ban imposed by Sheinbaum’s predecessor, leftist mentor Andrés Manuel López Obrador (2018-2024).
Sheinbaum justified her decision by pointing to “new technologies” that are less polluting and allow for water recycling without the use of harmful chemicals. She indicated the consultation of a panel of experts to assist in the final decision-making process, with an aim to increase energy production from renewable sources, particularly solar energy.
