The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) has adopted rules designating the “critical” natural gas suppliers and customers during energy emergencies in the wake of last February’s Winter Storm Uri.

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The cold snap caused a 20% plunge in natural gas production in the south-central United States, dented pipeline exports to Mexico by as much as 1 Bcf/d, and caused gas prices at U.S. hubs key to Mexico to surge as high as $400/MMBtu.

Natural gas buyers in Mexico have expressed concern about a similar supply/price shock occurring this winter. Excluding gas consumed by state oil company Petróleos Mexicanos, Mexico relies on imports to meet more than 90% of its consumption needs.

RRC Chairman Wayne Christian said the commission “adopted a ‘critical designation’ rule to ensure...