CNE regulates energy storage in Mexico

Von Wobeser y Sierra | On April 16, 2026, the National Energy Commission (CNE) published the General Administrative Provisions (DACGs) in the Official Gazette (DOF), establishing the regulatory framework for integrating Energy Storage Systems (SAEE) into the National Electric System (SEN). These provisions define the technical, operational, and regulatory requirements for the installation, interconnection, and operation of SAEE, alongside guidelines for services and grouping modalities. 
The DACGs categorize SAEE participation into five distinct modalities, which dictate the applicable regulatory regime, technical requirements, and permitting processes: 

• SAEE associated with Power Plants (SAEE-CE): These are treated as integral to the power plant, requiring no independent storage permit, provided they comply with generation permit regulations. 
• SAEE associated with Load Centers (SAEE-CC): Integrated into the user’s infrastructure to optimize demand, these systems cannot inject energy into the grid or be used for commercialization. 
• SAEE associated with Self-Consumption (SAEE-Autoconsumo): Function as accessories to existing self-consumption schemes. They do not require independent permits if maintained within existing parameters. 
• SAEE associated with Transmission and Distribution (SAEE-RNT/RGD): Strategic infrastructure reserved exclusively for the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) to support system management and reliability. 
• Independent SAEE (SAEE-No Asociados): Autonomous units requiring a specific storage permit from the CNE. They may participate directly in the Wholesale Electricity Market (MEM). 

The DACGs introduce a formal process for grouping SAEEs, allowing participants to share resources under specific conditions and CENACE supervision. Furthermore, the regulations mandate that all SAEEs currently in operation or development must adapt to these new provisions, which supersede the previous Agreement A/113/2024. During this transition, a hybrid operating system will be in effect while permits and technical conditions are updated. 

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