The Ministry of Energy (SENER), through the National Commission for the Efficient Use of Energy (Conuee), published in the Official Gazette of the Federation two Official Mexican Standards aimed at improving energy efficiency in the country. These are NOM-035-ENER-2025 and NOM-016-ENER-2025, which will come into force in February 2026.
Both standards aim to reduce energy consumption in strategic sectors such as commercial, industrial and agricultural, aligning with the goals of energy transition and sustainability goals of the Mexican government.
NOM-035-ENER-2025: more efficient air conditioning
NOM-035-ENER-2025 establishes for the first time the minimum energy efficiency values for unitary air conditioners with capacities between 19,050 and 70,340W. This type of equipment is common in commercial buildings, hospitals, educational centers, restaurants, offices, hangars and meeting centers. Among the most relevant points of this regulation are:
- Setting the minimum level of the Integrated Energy Efficiency Ratio (REEI).
- Inclusion of four international test methods (ANSI/ASHRAE and ANSI/AHRI).
- Incorporation of the Conformity Assessment Procedure.
- Specific labeling requirements, including charge and refrigerant type.
Effective February 16, 2026, with a one-year transition period. As of February 16, 2027, all new equipment will be required to demonstrate compliance.
NOM-016-ENER-2025: more demanding electric motors
On the other hand, NOM-016-ENER-2025 replaces the 2016 version and applies to alternating current, three-phase, squirrel cage induction type electric motors with power ratings from 0.746 kW to 373 kW. These motors are essential in pumping, ventilation, compression, conveying, extrusion and other processes in industrial, commercial and agricultural sectors. Among the most important changes are:
- Extension of the field of application to geared motors and motors integrated into autonomous equipment.
- Exclusion of motors requiring auxiliary cooling equipment.
- Reduction of loss tolerance (from 1.15 to 1.10).
- Adjustments to the conformity assessment procedure for technical clarity.
This standard will come into force on February 15, 2026, and its application will be mandatory as of that date for all equipment covered.
Mexico moves towards a more sustainable energy model
Both standards were developed within the framework of the National Consultative Committee on Standardization for the Preservation and Rational Use of Energy Resources (CCNNPURRE), with the participation of specialists, academic institutions, standardization organizations and industry representatives.
These new standards represent an opportunity to modernize the technological park of the productive sectors, reduce emissions and promote competitiveness through the rational use of energy.
Source: Government of Mexico