New NOM on Compressed Natural Gas: what you need to know

On May 6, 2026, NOM-022-ASEA-2026 was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation, which establishes new requirements for industrial safety, operational and environmental protection for facilities for the production of cement and ready-mix concrete:

  • Natural gas compression (CNG)
  • Loading of transportable storage modules (MAT)
  • CNG refueling stations for automotive vehicles

What changes?

  • NOM-010-ASEA-2016 is replaced.
  • Technical and safety standards are updated
  • International best practices are incorporated
  • Reinforced design, operation and maintenance requirements

Entry into force

The NOM will become effective 180 calendar days after its publication.

From that moment on:

  • NOM-010-ASEA-2016 is formally cancelled.
  • Implementation of the new regulatory framework begins

Transitional regime

The NOM establishes a differentiated scheme according to the type and condition of the facilities:

Existing facilities in operation

  • The Design (5) and Construction (6) chapters do not apply to them as long as the original design is not modified.
  • They will have 90 calendar days from the effective date to comply with the Operation and Maintenance obligations (Chapter 7).

2. Projects under construction

  • If they already have a design approval:
    • May continue under NOM-010-ASEA-2016 in design and construction.
    • Provided there are no modifications to the original design
  • The new NOM will apply mainly in later stages

3. Previous opinions

  • The opinions issued under NOM-010-ASEA-2016 will remain valid until their validity expires.

4. Relevant changes in compliance

  • For certain facilities (type B3), the operating report will no longer be annual but every 5 years, subject to future regulation.

What should companies do?

Recommended:

  • Identify which obligations are immediate vs. deferred
  • Perform a compliance diagnosis (gap analysis)
  • Plan technical adjustments and budget
  • Review facilities and security protocols

At Vega Guerrero y Asociados we have a team specialized in environmental matters and the hydrocarbons sector. For more information on the implementation of NOM-022-ASEA-2026, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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