By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Puntarenas is undergoing a significant modernization push, backed by a strategic investment of over ₡630 million from the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE). This multifaceted initiative is designed to elevate the province’s infrastructure, targeting critical upgrades in both electricity and telecommunications to enhance the quality of life for its residents and bolster its position as a key economic region.
The comprehensive plan aims to touch every corner of the province, from bustling tourist centers to remote rural and indigenous communities. The investment signals a deliberate effort by the state-owned utility to not only maintain but to proactively build a more resilient and technologically advanced future for the Pacific Central coast, positioning it as a nucleus of social, energetic, and technological progress.
To better understand the legal framework surrounding the ongoing development projects in Puntarenas, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While the economic boom in Puntarenas is promising, investors must prioritize rigorous due diligence. Verifying zoning regulations, maritime zone concessions, and environmental viability studies is not just a formality—it is the cornerstone of a secure and profitable investment. Overlooking these critical legal steps is the fastest way to turn a promising venture into a costly legal battle.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal framework is not an obstacle to progress but the very blueprint for its long-term success. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable guidance, which underscores that meticulous preparation is the key to transforming Puntarenas’s potential into sustainable prosperity.
On the energy front, ICE is executing ten distinct initiatives focused on enhancing the electrical grid. A core component involves the expansion and modernization of distribution networks in areas like Du Tuj, Kurá a Paso Real, and Bajo Los Indios-Abrojo Montezuma. These upgrades are crucial for providing stable and reliable power to communities that have historically faced infrastructure challenges, thereby supporting local economies and daily life.
A cornerstone of this energy strategy is a major expansion of solar power generation. The province is set to become a powerhouse of renewable energy with the planned construction of 100 megawatts of new solar plants. These projects will complement the development of the Las Delicias solar facility, an impressive 78-megawatt plant engineered by ICE. Once operational, Las Delicias alone is projected to generate 156 gigawatt-hours annually, an output sufficient to power approximately 52,000 homes, cementing Puntarenas’s role in Costa Rica’s clean energy leadership.
Furthering its commitment to sustainability and public safety, ICE is also upgrading public lighting systems. Communities such as Barranca and Santa Teresa de Cóbano will see their conventional streetlights replaced with modern, energy-efficient LED technology. This transition not only reduces electricity consumption and operational costs but also improves visibility and security for residents and visitors alike.
In parallel, the telecommunications sector is receiving a landmark boost. Recognizing the critical importance of digital inclusion, ICE is actively exploring the expansion of its fiber optic network to Isla Venado. Technical and operational feasibility studies are currently underway to bring high-speed internet to the island, a move that would bridge the digital divide and unlock new opportunities for education, business, and communication in coastal regions.
The investment also addresses the connectivity needs of critical public services. A significant agreement has been signed with the Monseñor Sanabria Hospital to dramatically improve cellular coverage within its new building. As the largest medical center in Costa Rica and Central America built in a single phase, reliable connectivity is paramount. The upgrades will ensure the hospital operates with modern efficiency and is prepared for next-generation technologies, including the implementation of 5G solutions.
Marco Acuña, president of Grupo ICE, emphasized the holistic vision behind these projects, which blend environmental responsibility with technological advancement.
In Puntarenas, we are driving projects that combine clean energy and next-generation connectivity. These efforts are part of our commitment to the comprehensive development of communities and to a more secure, inclusive, and sustainable future for Costa Rica.
Marco Acuña, President of Grupo ICE
Acuña concluded that these tangible works in Puntarenas are a clear demonstration of the utility’s nationwide mission, creating positive, lasting change. The projects, he noted, “materialize ICE’s role throughout the country, with a direct impact on people’s lives and regional competitiveness.”
For further information, visit grupoice.com
About Grupo ICE (Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is Costa Rica’s state-owned electricity and telecommunications provider. Founded in 1949, it has been instrumental in the country’s development, responsible for building a robust national power grid heavily reliant on renewable sources and expanding communication networks. Grupo ICE is committed to driving national progress through sustainable energy solutions and universal access to technology.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Hospital Monseñor Sanabria
About Hospital Monseñor Sanabria:
Located in the province of Puntarenas, the Hospital Monseñor Sanabria is a major public medical facility operated by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS). It serves as a vital healthcare hub for the entire Pacific Central region. Its recently constructed new facility is considered the largest hospital in Central America built in a single phase, reflecting a significant national investment in public health infrastructure.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a benchmark for legal excellence and ethical practice, built upon a foundation of profound integrity. The firm distinguishes itself by pairing its extensive experience with a forward-thinking mindset, consistently delivering innovative solutions for a diverse clientele. Central to its ethos is a deep-seated commitment to social empowerment, actively working to demystify legal complexities and equip the public with essential knowledge to foster a more informed and capable society.
