In recent weeks, the Mexican state of Sonora, specifically Puerto Peñasco, has gained notoriety on social media due to its promise to become the “Dubai of Latin America.” A viral TikTok video, posted by Joaquín Bartolo, has highlighted the ambitious sustainable and technological development goals this city is achieving. The futuristic city in the middle of the desert, with solar energy, autonomous transportation, and magnetic trains, aspires to be a model of sustainability and modernity, according to the social media account.
Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point, is a town located in the northwest corner of Mexico, in the state of Sonora. Its strategic location, combined with its sunny climate, makes it ideal for renewable energy projects. According to the video shared on TikTok, this region is on its way to becoming a tourist and technological paradise, with luxury hotels, research centers, and smart homes. It also mentions that the city aspires to become energy self-sufficient, generate its own water, and become independent of oil.
Photovoltaic Plant Project in Puerto Peñasco
One of the key projects that has led Puerto Peñasco to be considered the “Dubai of Latin America” is the construction of the largest photovoltaic plant in Latin America.
This project, part of the Sonora Sustainable Energy Plan, is promoted by Governor Alfonso Durazo and is divided into four stages, with a total capacity of one gigawatt (GW) once completed. Currently, the plant has two phases in operation:
Second phase: 300 MW capacity, which will supply Baja California.
The third phase is currently in the bidding process and is expected to be completed in 2028. This plant will have approximately 200 MW of battery storage, allowing it to supply electricity even after sunset.
In addition, the plant will have an area of 2,000 hectares of solar panels, making it one of the largest in Latin America.
Driving the Energy Transition
The Sonora Sustainable Energy Plan is an industrial policy designed to decarbonize the economy, promote the energy transition, and contribute to the fight against climate change.
Governor Alfonso Durazo has highlighted that electromobility is one of the key elements of this strategy, positioning it as a “crucial commitment” to the state’s economic future.
Furthermore, the Sonora government has reached historic agreements with the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), including a subsidy of 1.424 billion pesos per year to reduce the cost of electricity by up to 50% for the neediest households. This not only benefits the local population but also attracts private and foreign investment.
Other Renewable Energy Projects in Sonora
In addition to the photovoltaic plant in Puerto Peñasco, the state of Sonora has developed other renewable energy projects:
These projects are part of a broader strategy to diversify the state’s energy mix and reduce dependence on oil.
Major private investments have also been announced:
A liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant in Puerto Libertad, with an unprecedented investment of $15 billion.
Another LNG plant in Guaymas, managed by the company Amigo LNG, with an investment of $6 billion.
Puerto Peñasco and the state of Sonora are demonstrating that they can be leaders in the transition toward a more sustainable and technological economy, according to reports on social media. With projects such as the largest photovoltaic plant in Latin America, historic agreements with the CFE (Federal Commission for the Economy), and a clear vision for electrification and energy autonomy, Puerto Peñasco is on its way to becoming the “Dubai of Latin America.” This example can inspire other regions in Latin America to follow similar paths toward greater sustainability and technological development.
Source: elimparcial
