GE and Iberdrola ‘milestone’ gas plant fires up in Mexico

New 766MW gas plant marks first use in Mexico of GE 7HA.01 gas turbines

Iberdrola is celebrating the start of commercial operations of a new combined-cycle gas plant in Mexico which runs on GE Vernova turbines.

The Topolobampo III plant is in the Mexican state of Sinaloa, near the Topolobampo natural gas pipeline, and is powered by GE’s H-class combined cycle equipment, including the first 7HA.01 GE gas turbines ordered in Mexico.

The plant can generate up to 766MW and has been built for Iberdrola to tackle Mexico's rising growing energy demand.

Mexico is among the largest producers of natural gas and the country’s output increased by 18% in 2022, while the government plans to double current renewable energy capacity by 2030, which would increase solar and wind capacity from 15 GW to 40 GW.

Iberdrola Mexico chief executive Enrique Alba said the plant was a “milestone project” and  would be vital for balancing renewables with gas generation.

“Flexibility is essential for incorporating renewable energy sources into the grid like wind and solar power and GE Vernova’s H-Class equipment, at the heart of our Topolobampo III power plant, is crucial to support the growth of renewables power generation in Mexico.”

The plant uses two of GE Vernova’s 7HA.01 gas turbines, a D650 steam turbine, three H53 generators, and advanced plant control systems.

Dave Ross, President of GE Vernova’s Gas Power business in the Americas, said: “As the demand for electricity in Mexico continues to grow at a rapid pace, our HA technology, extended scope products and advanced digital capabilities are helping to transform the way future demands are met by delivering more reliable, efficient and flexible power to the country.”

Iberdrola Mexico operates in 15 states via 28 power plants, comprising combined cycles, cogeneration, wind and solar farms.

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