Simas Rural seeks tariff protection while settling supplier debts

Simas Rural has managed to settle all of its debts for 2024, remaining current with its suppliers. However, the dispute with the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) remains a critical issue, and due to the lack of agreements, the utility was forced to seek protection due to a tariff dispute.

José Antonio Gutiérrez Jardón, general manager of the Torreón-Matamoros Intermunicipal Water and Sanitation System (Simas Rural), reported that priority has been given to efficient payments to suppliers, ensuring that those who provide good service are compensated within a maximum of 30 days.

"We want the system to be reliable, without asking suppliers for additional financing," he said.

Despite having caught up with all suppliers, the The debt of 250 million pesos with the CFE remains a pending issue. The agency attempted to negotiate with the Commission, but the Commission conditioned the resolution of the conflict on the Municipality or the state government assuming the debt, something impossible given that Simas Rural is an autonomous agency. Faced with the CFE's refusal to accept staggered payments, the company proceeded to cut off electricity to some wells and sumps, forcing Simas Rural to seek legal protection.

Thanks to the injunction, a definitive suspension was obtained. However, the process is still ongoing, as Simas Rural demands an explanation for the rate fluctuations. The CFE imposes up to five different rates ranging from $3.70 to $0.90 per kilowatt hour, something they consider unjustifiable, especially for a system that serves an 80% rural population and vulnerable sectors.

Simas Rural continues to pay the rate it considers fair, pending the court ruling. He has also pointed out charges without a formal contract. , based on arbitrary estimates and that some debts already prescribed have been reassigned to the current balance, generating uncertainty about the actual amounts to be paid.

The debt with the CFE was reduced from 280 million pesos to 250 million pesos, following adjustments to the notifications sent by the Commission. However, the process is still underway to resolve the tariff issue and establish a fair payment that reflects actual consumption and the specific conditions of Simas Rural.

"We want to reach a good agreement, but we also need the Commission to understand the reality of our system and justify the rate differences," said Gutiérrez Jardón.