Mexports reach 2026 peak in August before seasonal decline, says Wood Mackenzie

US natural gas pipeline exports to Mexico (Mexports) are closing August at a record monthly average of almost 7.9 Bcf/d, according to Wood Mackenzie.  

Incremental volumes from West Texas (WTX) and South Texas (STX) are the primary drivers behind this milestone. Both US regions are posting all-time highs in monthly averages and single-day flows. On gas day 13 August, WTX approached 2.3 Bcf/d; on 26 August, STX crossed the 5.4 Bcf/d mark.  

Natural gas burns for power generation, the main demand factor for Mexports’ growth, set a new all-time monthly average of over 5.8 Bcf/d in August.  

Wood Mackenzie projects Mexports have now reached their 2026 peak. While volumes remain strong in early September, a downward push is likely to develop soon. From here, Mexican gas and power markets are set to enter a gradual seasonal decline, driven by easing cooling loads, shoulder-season maintenance windows, and holiday-related demand softness.  

“August’s record Mexport flows reflect both the structural growth of Mexico’s gas-fired power sector and the intensity of this year’s cooling season. With temperatures set to moderate and maintenance windows opening, we expect volumes to ease from here. The medium-term trajectory, however, remains upward as Mexico’s combined-cycle fleet continues to expand” said Ricardo Falcón, Research Manager, Mexico Natural Gas at Wood Mackenzie.