12 Guaymas Basin and Gulf of California Subsurface Systems and Energy Applications
This session will present subsurface research in the Gulf of California, especially IODP Expedition 385 to Guaymas Basin that explored the linkages between tectonics, magmatism, sedimentation, hydrothermalism, carbon cycling, and microbial life. Merged sessions: Subsurface Research in Guaymas Basin and the Gulf of California and Energy Resources and Economic Development in Baja California: Fossil, Renewable, and Transition Minerals.
Wednesday, 22 April 2026
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
LMH, Isla Carmen
Energy Demand, Supply, and Resources in Baja California: Renewable, Transition Minerals, and Fossil Fuels
Paper number: 12-14
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 4:50 PM – 5:10 PM
Authors
Abstract
Economic development relies on energy resources. Earth Science and Engineering provide the knowledge and technology that allow for inexpensive and available energy. Mexico’s Baja California produces about 10-15% of the energy it consumes. Baja has no refineries and is highly dependent on imported fossil fuels for both power generation and transportation, and it is not connected to Mexico’s national electric grid. 50–55% of Baja’s energy demand is for electrical generation fueled by natural gas, fuel oil, and geothermal resources; 35–40% of demand is for transportation (gasoline and diesel); and 5–10% are direct industrial fuel use. Baja is two distinct energy systems: the north (Tijuana–Mexicali–Ensenada) is interconnected with the US via electric grid and natural gas pipelines, and the south (La Paz–Los Cabos) is energy isolated. Power generation in the north is fueled by imported natural gas (~65–70%) and geothermal power plants (~18–22%). In the south power plants use imported fuel oil and diesel (~55–65%) and local solar energy (~20–25%). Solar and wind generation in the north ~5–7. The Cerro Prieto Geothermal Field is Baja’s most productive in-state sourced energy asset. Although the field has experienced declining output its remains one of the largest geothermal systems in North America. Wind and solar energy are currently underutilized despite Baja California having high solar irradiance and favorable wind corridors. Utility-scale solar and wind farms could position Baja California as a net exporter of renewable power. Energy-transition metals, including copper, lithium, and associated critical minerals have established production, or at the early evaluation stage. Growing demand from electric vehicles, grid storage, and renewable-energy infrastructure show these resources could become a significant driver of future mining investment and high-value employment. Geologic conditions are favorable for petroleum systems in offshore Pacific and Gulf of California, as well as in onshore basins: Vizcaíno and Magdalena Basins. A more detailed review of these resources is in the presentation. Baja’s resource development will reduce energy imports and emissions, enhance energy security, and provide inexpensive and reliable energy for economic development. While development is necessary for a prosperous Baja, it must proceed in a manner that protects its pristine and unique desert-maritime environment.
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 3
doi: 10.1130/abs/2026CD-410777
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