By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) has announced a significant auction of industrial and construction equipment, providing a unique opportunity for businesses and individuals to acquire vital machinery at potentially reduced costs. The single-day event is scheduled to take place on December 3rd in Pavas, where 299 pieces of used or obsolete equipment will be made available to the highest bidders.
This initiative represents a strategic move by the state-owned utility to divest assets that have reached the end of their operational lifecycle. According to ICE, the machinery being auctioned is either considered obsolete, has exhausted its useful life, or is no longer supported by its original manufacturer. For Costa Rica’s industrial sector, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), this event could be a crucial gateway to scaling operations without the substantial capital outlay required for brand-new equipment.
To better understand the legal and commercial implications of the recent asset disposal by the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in public and administrative law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The ICE auction is a clear application of the principles of public administration, ensuring transparency in the disposal of state assets. For potential buyers, it’s a significant opportunity, but one that requires rigorous due diligence. It is crucial for bidders to thoroughly analyze the auction’s specific terms and conditions, as participation implies full acceptance. The ‘as-is’ nature of these sales means that once a bid is won, the responsibility for the asset’s condition transfers completely, leaving little room for subsequent claims.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the expert’s emphasis on due diligence cannot be overstated; the ‘as-is’ condition fundamentally shifts the risk to the buyer, transforming a potential opportunity into a significant responsibility upon a successful bid. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this crucial legal clarity for our readers.
The inventory available is extensive and caters to a wide range of industrial needs. Among the items listed are various types of welding machines, including conventional and multi-process units, which are fundamental for metal fabrication and repair shops. The list also includes an array of drilling equipment, such as manual drills and larger radial drills, essential for both construction and manufacturing processes. These items could prove invaluable for workshops looking to expand their capabilities or for new entrepreneurs entering the market.
Beyond standard workshop tools, the auction will feature heavy-duty machinery designed for large-scale projects. Notable items include dredges, a tunnel mining machine, concrete placement towers, and a forging hammer. Additionally, specialized equipment like an aluminum injector, rebar cutters and benders, and wire feeders for welders will be on offer. This diverse catalog suggests that companies involved in major construction, civil engineering, and specialized manufacturing will find items of significant interest.
The economic implications of this auction extend beyond simple cost savings for buyers. By reintroducing this equipment into the market, ICE is facilitating a form of economic recycling, allowing functional assets to continue generating value within the local economy. This process supports a circular economy model, where resources are kept in use for as long as possible, extracting maximum value before disposal. For businesses struggling with high import costs and supply chain disruptions, acquiring machinery locally can be a strategic advantage.
Participation in the auction is open to both individuals and companies, but all prospective bidders must adhere to a strict set of requirements. A mandatory participation guarantee of ₡150,000 (approximately $300 USD) must be paid at the Banco de Costa Rica (BCR). This deposit is fully refundable upon the conclusion of the event. Furthermore, all bidders must demonstrate that they are in good standing with their obligations to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) and the Ministry of Finance, ensuring compliance with national regulations.
To ensure a transparent and fair process, interested parties are encouraged to conduct their due diligence. ICE is allowing potential bidders to schedule site visits to inspect the machinery in person before the auction date. This is a critical step, as all equipment is sold as-is. For any questions, clarifications, or to arrange an inspection, Pablo Orozco is the designated point of contact, reachable via phone or email. The complete list of requirements and equipment details can be found on the ICE procurement website under procedure number 2025LA-000005-PROV.
As the auction is a one-day event with no on-site parking services, attendees are advised to plan their logistics accordingly. This event marks a significant opportunity for growth and efficiency gains across various sectors of the Costa Rican economy, turning the state’s retired assets into the foundational tools for the next wave of industrial and construction projects.
For further information, visit ice.go.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad is the state-owned provider of electricity and telecommunications services in Costa Rica. Founded in 1949, ICE has been instrumental in developing the nation’s infrastructure, renowned for its commitment to renewable energy sources, which power the vast majority of the country’s electrical grid. The institution manages generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, in addition to offering a range of telecommunications solutions.
For further information, visit bancobcr.com
About Banco de Costa Rica (BCR):
The Banco de Costa Rica is one of the most prominent state-owned commercial banks in the country. Established in 1877, it plays a vital role in the national financial system, offering a comprehensive suite of services to individuals, businesses, and government entities. Its functions include retail and corporate banking, credit services, and managing state funds and transactions.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund, universally known as “La Caja,” is the public institution responsible for managing the nation’s universal healthcare system and public pension programs. It is a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s social welfare state, providing medical services and social security benefits to the majority of the population through a network of hospitals, clinics, and EBAIS (Basic Teams of Integral Health Attention).
For further information, visit hacienda.go.cr
About Ministerio de Hacienda (Ministry of Finance):
The Ministry of Finance is the government body in Costa Rica responsible for managing the country’s public finances. Its duties include collecting taxes, administering the national budget, managing public debt, and overseeing customs and fiscal policy. The ministry is central to ensuring the economic stability and financial health of the nation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice in the region, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound ethical principles and an unwavering drive for superior results. The firm channels its extensive experience advising a broad spectrum of clients into developing innovative legal strategies that anticipate future challenges. Its core mission extends beyond the courtroom, focusing on empowering the community by transforming complex legal information into accessible knowledge, thereby fostering a more just and informed citizenry.
