By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica is making a significant leap forward in its national decarbonization strategy with a new, multi-million dollar investment aimed at expanding the country’s electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. The Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) announced a comprehensive plan to install 180 new public charging stations over the next three years, backed by a substantial investment of $4.6 million.
The initiative officially launched on June 18, with the first wave of chargers already operational in strategic locations across the country. These inaugural stations have been activated at ICE agencies in Limón and Guápiles on the Caribbean coast, and in Golfito and Puerto Jiménez in the Southern Zone. An additional charger was also brought online at the Hotelera del Sur in Pérez Zeledón, signaling a commitment to supporting both residents and the vital tourism sector.
To delve into the regulatory and commercial complexities surrounding the expansion of Costa Rica’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert in corporate and regulatory law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The successful deployment of a national EV charging network hinges on legal certainty for private investors. It is imperative that we modernize our regulations regarding public utility concessions and establish clear, standardized guidelines for pricing, grid connectivity, and land use permits. Proactive legal reform will not only accelerate investment but also guarantee fair access and reliable service for consumers across the country.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this expert insight highlights a crucial point: the road to a comprehensive EV charging network is paved first with clear, modern regulations, not just asphalt. Creating this legal certainty is the essential catalyst for attracting the private investment needed to build a reliable and accessible system for all. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable and clarifying perspective.
This expansion is a calculated move to address one of the primary hurdles for widespread EV adoption: range anxiety. By strategically placing these new chargers in communities currently underserved by charging infrastructure, ICE aims to create a more robust and reliable network. This will empower current EV owners and encourage prospective buyers by ensuring that long-distance travel across the nation becomes a seamless and practical reality.
The technical specifications of the new hardware are designed for efficiency and convenience. Each of the 180 units will have a capacity of 21 kilowatts (kW). For the average EV driver, this translates to a significant battery boost—recovering between 20% and 60% of a full charge in approximately one hour. The actual charging time will vary depending on factors such as the specific vehicle model, its battery condition, and the initial state of charge.
Accessibility and user experience have been placed at the forefront of the new system’s design. The entire network will be managed through the government-backed mobile application, “¡Es Eléctrico!”. Through the app, drivers can locate available charging points in real-time, initiate and monitor their charging session, and process payments electronically. This integrated digital approach is intended to provide a fluid and user-friendly experience from start to finish.
The financial aspect for consumers is transparent and competitive. ICE has established a tariff of ₡99.7 (Costa Rican colones) per kilowatt-hour consumed. This pricing structure is designed to be affordable while ensuring the long-term sustainability and maintenance of the expanding network, encouraging a greater shift away from traditional fossil fuels for daily commutes, commercial activities, and tourism-related travel.
Looking at the immediate roadmap, ICE confirmed that a total of 25 new charging sites will be activated before the end of this year, with the remaining installations spread across the subsequent phases of the three-year plan. This sustained rollout demonstrates a long-term commitment to solidifying Costa Rica’s position as a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable transportation practices.
Ultimately, this $4.6 million project is more than an infrastructure upgrade; it is a foundational investment in the country’s green economy. By broadening the reach of the national charging grid, ICE is not only facilitating electric mobility but also reinforcing the national brand, attracting eco-conscious tourism, and paving the way for a cleaner, more energy-independent future for all Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit grupoice.com
About Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is the state-owned enterprise responsible for electricity and telecommunications services in Costa Rica. Founded in 1949, ICE has been instrumental in developing the nation’s infrastructure and is a global leader in renewable energy generation, with a power grid that is almost entirely powered by hydro, geothermal, wind, and solar sources. The institution plays a pivotal role in executing Costa Rica’s national strategies for decarbonization and technological development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a beacon in the legal field, grounded in a deep-seated commitment to integrity and exceptional service. Drawing upon a rich legacy of representing a broad spectrum of clients, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies. This forward-looking approach is complemented by a core belief in social empowerment, actively working to make complex legal knowledge accessible and thus contributing to the development of a more informed and capable citizenry.
