Navigating the Grid
Understanding CFE Rules &
Bi-Directional Metering
In Baja California Sur, solar interconnection is more than just hardware. It requires a strict legal process with the CFE to ensure safety, reliability, and maximum financial credit for the energy you produce.
How Big Can You Go?
CFE (Comisión Federal de Electricidad) categorizes solar systems based on their capacity. For most owners in Cabo, staying within the “Small Scale” limits simplifies the permitting process significantly.
Plants under 0.7 MW need no generation permit
Under the 2025 Ley del Sector Eléctrico, Art. 19, plants under 0.7 MW are exempt generators with no generation permit. CFE interconnection approval is still required. Source: ficha.
CFE approval still applies
That exemption is separate from CFE interconnection approval. Confirm current CFE forms, and see how CFE net metering works.
The “Isolated Grid” Factor
Unlike mainland Mexico, the Baja California Sur grid (SEM) is an isolated system. This means CFE is much stricter about surge protection and “dirty” power. Cabo Solar Experts only uses Tier-1 inverters (Sol-Ark, EG4, REC) that are pre-certified to meet the BCS grid stability requirements.
Certified Hardware
Equipment Approved for CFE Interconnection
To receive a bi-directional meter, your system must use equipment that meets international and Mexican safety standards (UL 1741 & IEEE 1547).
- Sol-Ark Hybrid Inverters
- EG4 Energy Storage & 18kPV Units
- REC & Aptos High-Efficiency Panels
We Handle the Approval
Don’t worry about technical spec sheets or certification numbers. Cabo Solar Experts handles the entire equipment verification process and approval paperwork with CFE for you. We guarantee that every component we install is 100% compliant with local laws.
The Bi-Directional Meter Process
How we turn your home into a personal power plant.
Documentation
We prepare your single-line diagram and CFE application (Solicitud de Interconexión).
Inspection
CFE personnel inspect the external disconnect switch and grounding to verify safety compliance.
Contract
Homeowner signs the official Net Metering Contract for a 1:1 energy credit exchange.
Meter Swap
CFE replaces your standard meter with a bi-directional unit. You are now officially online!
Common CFE Questions
Are bi-directional meters available in BCS right now?
Yes. While local stock can sometimes fluctuate at CFE branches in Cabo or San José, they are currently available for new interconnections. As your installer, we monitor CFE inventory and handle the application immediately upon commissioning to ensure your swap is scheduled without delay.
Does CFE pay me for excess energy?
CFE uses a credit system, not a cash payment system. For every 1 kWh you send to the grid, you get 1 kWh of credit to use at night or on cloudy days. Credits stay on your account for 12 months.
Is an external disconnect really required?
Yes. CFE rules (NOM-001) mandate a physical lever-style disconnect located outside, usually right next to the meter. This is a non-negotiable safety requirement for their line workers.
Permit and Meter Questions
Do I need a generation permit for home solar in Mexico?
No, for plants under 0.7 MW. Under the 2025 Ley del Sector Eléctrico, Art. 19, these plants are exempt generators with no generation permit. Source: ficha.
Do I still need CFE approval?
Yes. The exemption is separate from CFE interconnection approval. The application, inspection and contract come before the meter swap.
What is a bi-directional meter?
CFE replaces your standard meter with a bi-directional unit. It tracks the energy you send to the grid. For every 1 kWh you send, you get 1 kWh of credit.
Where can I learn how the credits work?
Read our guide on how CFE net metering works. It covers credits and the 12-month window.