New gas pipeline seeks to strengthen US-Mexico interconnection

A new US-based gas pipeline plans to strengthen that country's interconnection with Mexico and bolster the supply available in the states of Sonora and Baja California.

The Yuma II project developed by US-based EPGN and Mexico-based Grupo Clisa will add a second connection point at the border straddling the town of Yuma and San Luis Río Colorado, where currently TC Energy's North Baja Pipeline links up with Sempra's Rosarito pipeline.

The new 225km line seeks to connect EPGN's South Mainline system at a site near Wenden station, Arizona, with San Luis Río Colorado in northern Sonora through a new set of border crossing facilities, increasing the area's capacity to transport gas flowing from West Texas and the Rocky Mountains towards the Mexican Pacific coast.

The area is host to a number of planned LNG export facilities, including Sempra's Energía Costa Azul (Baja California) and Tobolobampo (Sonora) units, as well as Amigo LNG and Puerto Libertad LNG, located alongside the Sonora coast.

According to EPGN as cited by local press, the pipeline would increase Mexico's competitiveness by allowing greater access to cheaper natural gas supply, which makes up 60% of the country's electricity generation and is widely used in industrial processes.

The partners plan for the line to be operational by the end of 2025, although the schedule is subject to change.