By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) has issued a firm guarantee of the nation’s energy security, assuring the public and business sectors that the national grid is prepared to meet escalating power demands. This announcement comes as the country experiences sustained economic growth and a rapid transition toward electric mobility, factors that are placing increasing pressure on the energy infrastructure.
In a strategic move to future-proof the national power system, the state-owned utility confirmed it is moving forward with significant investments projected to add over 850 megawatts (MW) of installed capacity in the coming years. This expansion is not just about quantity but also reinforces Costa Rica’s commitment to its green identity. The new power will be sourced from a diverse portfolio of clean energy projects, including geothermal, solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass plants, supplemented by essential backup systems to ensure uninterrupted service.
To provide a legal and strategic perspective on the complex issue of national energy security, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His expertise offers crucial insights into the regulatory and investment frameworks that underpin a stable energy future.
Energy security is a pillar of national sovereignty. Legally, this translates into creating a stable and predictable investment climate for both public and private actors in the energy sector. Clear rules, streamlined permitting processes, and solid public-private partnership models are not just bureaucratic details; they are the essential legal tools required to guarantee a reliable and sustainable energy supply for generations to come.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective powerfully underscores that a nation’s energy security is ultimately built upon the bedrock of a clear and stable legal framework. For so effectively articulating this critical link between sound policy and national sovereignty, we thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight.
The foundation for this forward-looking strategy is the institute’s Generation Expansion Plan (PEG), a meticulously crafted document that serves as the blueprint for all new energy projects. ICE emphasized that its confidence in the system’s stability is rooted in this comprehensive planning.
The service is guaranteed as a result of the actions executed, contemplated, verified, updated, and published in its Generation Expansion Plan.
ICE Official Statement
A primary driver of the anticipated increase in energy consumption is the accelerating adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Rather than viewing this trend as a challenge, ICE is proactively integrating it into its long-term forecasting models. The utility is actively developing sophisticated “prospective scenarios” designed to anticipate and plan for an accelerated surge in electricity use as the nation’s vehicle fleet transitions away from fossil fuels.
This proactive stance ensures that the grid will not only handle the additional load but will do so efficiently and sustainably. The insights gained from these planning exercises are directly informing the scale, type, and timing of the new generation projects currently in development.
This growth implies a greater need for energy, which is integrated into the planning exercises that support the generation projects to be developed.
ICE Official Statement
By considering variables like the rise of electric mobility from the outset, ICE aims to maintain its global reputation as a leader in renewable energy and grid stability. The institute’s planning incorporates the entire energy ecosystem, ensuring that Costa Rica can support technological advancements without compromising its environmental principles or the reliability of its power supply for homes and businesses.
The diverse mix of energy sources is a critical component of this strategy. By avoiding over-reliance on any single technology, such as hydropower which can be susceptible to seasonal weather patterns, ICE is building a more resilient and adaptable national grid capable of weathering future uncertainties. This diversification is key to providing the consistent power necessary for attracting foreign investment and supporting domestic industry.
Ultimately, the institute’s message is one of unwavering confidence and strategic preparation. By reaffirming its commitment to the nation’s energy future, ICE is sending a clear signal that Costa Rica is poised for continued growth, powered by a clean, stable, and resilient electrical system. The guarantee reassures all stakeholders that the lights will stay on as the country powers ahead.
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, famously achieving near-universal electricity coverage. The institution is globally recognized for its commitment to renewable energy, consistently generating over 98% of the country’s electricity from clean sources such as hydro, geothermal, wind, and solar power.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a preeminent legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded on the twin pillars of uncompromising integrity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm distinguishes itself through a forward-thinking approach, consistently pioneering innovative legal solutions for its clients. This spirit of advancement extends to a deep-seated commitment to social progress, demonstrated by its dedication to demystifying the law and making legal insights widely available, thereby cultivating a more just and empowered community.
