The following is a summary of the tariff and regulatory framework applicable to large users of Argentina's Wholesale Electricity Market (MEM), with particular relevance for data centre projects and other large industrial loads.

Electricity pricing for large users

Large Users of the MEM pay the full Spot Price. As a reference, in January 2026 the monomial price (energy + capacity + services + transmission) stood at USD 64.6/MWh (equivalent to ARS 80,517/MWh at the exchange rate of the last business day).

Tariff structure

The tariff structure applicable to large loads includes the following components:

– Distribution toll charges, Provincial High-Voltage Transmission (132 kV) and Extra-High-Voltage Transmission (500 kV), depending on the point of grid connection
– Energy and capacity supply costs in the MEM and/or the Forward Market (MAT)

Depending on the jurisdiction, specific toll rates apply where the user is connected to a distributor's network, generating regional variations in the final cost.

Long-term supply schemes

The current framework promotes long-term supply security through increased contracting, particularly through the MAT, with open and competitive procedures. During a transitional period, contracts currently managed by CAMMESA will be progressively transferred to Distributors and Large Users, with the aim of migrating towards more stable contractual arrangements.

For Distributors, Decree No. 450/2025 establishes a minimum contracting floor in the MAT (at least 75% of energy for users without the capacity to contract independently).

Supply requirement for large-scale new demand

Article 13 of Resolution No. 400/2025 of the Secretariat of Energy establishes that any new demand in the MEM connected directly to the High-Voltage Transmission System that represents an increase exceeding 0.5% of average MEM demand must submit a supply plan ensuring:

– At least 80% from new energy production
– Physical capacity backup sufficient to cover up to 80% of consumption

Bilateral supply agreements (PPAs)

PPAs and bilateral contracts are enabled under the principle of free negotiation, whereby generators may contract supply directly with distributors and large users. Resolution No. 400/2025 organises the MAT to facilitate such free contracting, with quantities, prices and terms freely agreed between parties. A Large User may also self-supply electricity in isolation or connect to a distributor's or transmission company's network, depending on their power demand, connection voltage and location.

Legal and regulatory framework

– Law No. 15,336: general federal framework for the electricity industry
– Law No. 24,065: structures the MEM and defines market agents
– Decree No. 450/2025: updates the framework with a focus on free contracting and legal certainty
– Resolution No. 400/2025 SE: MEM normalisation rules and criteria for greater contracting

For further information, please contact the Commercial Section of the Embassy: embargentina_trade@mrecic.gov.ar