By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant move to bolster the nation’s electric vehicle infrastructure, the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) announced the launch of a major update to its proprietary charging application, “¡Es Eléctrico!”. The new version, 3.0, released on Monday, January 12, introduces a suite of operational enhancements designed to create a more fluid and user-friendly experience for the country’s growing community of EV drivers.
The centerpiece of this update is a fundamental shift in how users interact with the charging stations. The new system eliminates the need for manual activation at the point of service. Once a user has completed a one-time registration within the app, they gain immediate and automatic access to the entire ICE charging network. This change addresses a common friction point for users, promising to significantly reduce the time and effort required to initiate a charging session.
To better understand the legal framework and commercial opportunities driving the electric vehicle revolution in the country, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The transition to electric vehicles is creating a new legal frontier in Costa Rica. While tax incentives under Law No. 9518 are a powerful catalyst, investors and businesses must navigate the evolving regulations for public charging infrastructure, including municipal permits and ARESEP’s tariff structures. The key legal challenge ahead is not just importation, but establishing a clear, streamlined regulatory path for the development and commercialization of a nationwide charging network, which represents the most significant business opportunity in this sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the long-term success of electric mobility in Costa Rica will be measured not just by the number of vehicles on the road, but by the legal and commercial viability of the charging network that supports them. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating this pivotal challenge and opportunity.
To enable this automated functionality, new and existing users will be required to complete a comprehensive registration process. This involves providing essential personal data and linking a bank card for direct billing. After this initial setup is finalized, the system will handle all subsequent validations and payments automatically, allowing drivers to simply plug in their vehicles and begin charging without further app interaction at the station.
The strategic goal behind this platform overhaul is to create a more integrated and efficient ecosystem. The institute has focused on streamlining the backend processes to deliver a more reliable and simplified front-end experience for the consumer. This effort reflects a deeper commitment to making EV ownership as convenient as, or even more convenient than, traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
We have worked to optimize the platform to simplify and centralize all its processes
Jeremy Prado, Coordinator of the Business Solutions Development Area at ICE
For the thousands of current users of the “¡Es Eléctrico!” app, updating to version 3.0 is not optional but mandatory. The previous versions will no longer be compatible with the charging network following this upgrade. In a public advisory, ICE strongly recommended that all EV drivers perform the update on their mobile devices before their next trip to a charging station. This proactive measure will prevent any potential service disruptions or delays.
This technological advancement is a critical component of Costa Rica’s national decarbonization plan. By making the public charging infrastructure more accessible and efficient, ICE is actively encouraging the adoption of electric mobility. A seamless charging experience is vital for building driver confidence and accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels, contributing to the country’s ambitious environmental goals.
Beyond the core automation features, the platform continues to offer flexibility. For those who prefer a physical payment method, an optional “¡Es Eléctrico!” card can be requested directly through the app following the user’s first successful charge. The payment for the card is processed online, with delivery coordinated subsequently. The updated application is now available for download on both major mobile operating systems, ensuring broad accessibility for all users on Android and iOS devices.
Ultimately, the rollout of version 3.0 marks a pivotal moment for Costa Rica’s EV market. By centralizing user data and automating the charging process, ICE is not just launching an app update; it is laying the groundwork for a more robust, scalable, and user-centric electric mobility network. This commitment to continuous improvement solidifies the institute’s role as a key enabler of a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future for all Ticos.
For further information, visit grupoice.com
About Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is the autonomous state-owned entity responsible for electricity generation and distribution, as well as telecommunications services, throughout Costa Rica. Founded in 1949, ICE has been instrumental in developing the nation’s infrastructure, famously achieving near-universal electricity coverage. The institute is a world leader in renewable energy, consistently generating over 98% of its electricity from clean sources like hydro, geothermal, wind, and solar power. In recent years, it has become a key driver of Costa Rica’s national decarbonization strategy, particularly through the expansion of the public electric vehicle charging network.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a beacon in the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its extensive history of serving a multifaceted clientele to drive innovation within the legal field. Central to its ethos is a profound dedication to strengthening society, fulfilled by championing the accessibility of legal knowledge to cultivate a more capable and empowered citizenry.
