Mexicali, the capital city of Baja California, has been suffering from power shortages since June, as a result of record-breaking heat and insufficient electricity generation. The city, which has a population of over one million people, has experienced temperatures above 113°F, which have increased the demand for air conditioning and other cooling devices. However, the state-owned power plants that supply electricity to Mexicali have not been able to meet the demand, causing blackouts and brownouts that affect homes, businesses, and public services.
According to experts, the power shortage in Mexicali is a consequence of two factors: climate change and lack of investment. Climate change has made extreme heat more common and more intense in Mexico, especially in the northern regions near the border with the United States.
This has put more pressure on the power grid, which is already vulnerable to fluctuations and failures. On the other hand, a lack of investment has prevented the expansion and modernization of the power generation and transmission infrastructure in Mexico, which relies mostly on fossil fuels and hydroelectricity.
The current administration has also canceled or postponed several renewable energy projects that could have diversified and increased the power supply.
The power shortage in Mexicali has affected the quality of life and the economy of the city, as well as its neighboring areas. Residents have complained about high temperatures, spoiled food, damaged appliances, and health risks. Businesses have reported losses due to reduced production, interrupted operations, and lower sales.
Public services such as water supply, traffic lights, hospitals, and schools have also been disrupted by the power outages. The authorities have urged people to reduce their electricity consumption and use alternative sources of energy, such as solar panels or generators.
However, these measures are not enough to solve the problem in the long term. Experts suggest that Mexico needs to invest more in its electric system and adopt more renewable energy sources to cope with the challenges posed by climate change and increasing demand.
Source: La Voz de la Frontera
