By Adriana Barrera

MEXICO CITY, (Reuters) – The U.S. top business lobby in Mexico Tuesday expressed concern about a bill strengthening the state’s control over the power market. It would also hurt private capital. They claimed it would make it harder for American businesses to fulfill climate commitments.

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, the Mexican president has championed legislation that would prioritize the national power utility Comision Federal de Electricidad. However, critics claim the plan undercuts wind and sun power investments at a crucial time when companies are being pressured to increase their renewable energy mix.

Ana Lopez from the American Chamber of Commerce in Mexico, who heads the hearing was a representative of Amcham, stated: “Big U.S. corporations have climate commitments that are as serious as being in an 80% or 100% energy-efficient operation in the following decade.”

She said, in reference to the proposed constitutional reform, “If they can’t meet their obligations because Mexico isn’t capable of providing enough energy cleanly, these companies won’t be able continue operating in Mexico.”

Lopez stated that Amcham members worry about the possibility of Mexico violating its commitments under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

Jennifer Granholm from the U.S. Energy Department, who was in Mexico last month to discuss the issue, stated that Mexico’s bill could crimp investment and wouldn’t create an “level playing ground” for American companies looking to invest in renewable energy.

John Kerry, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico’s climate negotiations will meet Lopez Obrador in Mexico Wednesday to discuss increasing renewable energy and investing.

Mexican President said that the countries would cooperate in climate efforts.