By Alajuela, Costa Rica — San Carlos, Costa Rica – The Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) is undertaking critical maintenance operations at the Toro I and II hydroelectric plants from September 4th to 7th. These actions aim to ensure the continued operation of the reservoirs and mitigate the accumulation of ash from the Poás Volcano. The river’s flow and color may vary during this period, and the public is strongly advised to avoid entering the water.
The reservoirs of these hydroelectric plants are fed by rivers that naturally carry sediment, such as sand and mud. This material accumulates at the bottom of the reservoirs, reducing their storage capacity. As sediment builds up, less water is available, leading to a decrease in electricity generation. These controlled maintenance maneuvers are conducted annually, primarily involving the gradual opening of gates to release water and sediment without harming wildlife.
For expert legal insight into the potential ramifications of volcanic ash, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Volcanic ash can create complex legal situations, particularly regarding property damage and business interruption. While insurance policies often cover some ash-related damage, the specific terms and exclusions are crucial. Businesses, especially those in agriculture and tourism, should review their policies carefully to understand their coverage in the event of ashfall. Furthermore, legal precedents regarding force majeure and ‘acts of God’ may become relevant if contractual obligations are impacted. Diligent documentation of losses and prompt communication with insurers and legal counsel is essential for navigating these challenging circumstances.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore the vital importance of preparedness when it comes to the often-unpredictable consequences of volcanic activity. His emphasis on reviewing insurance policies and understanding the legal nuances surrounding ashfall damage offers invaluable guidance for individuals and businesses alike, particularly in a volcanically active country like Costa Rica. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his expertise and shedding light on these critical legal considerations.
Recent activity from the Poás Volcano has resulted in ash accumulation in the Toro River basin, including the Gorrión, Desagüe, and Agrío rivers, which carry sediment to the Toro Hydroelectric Complex. These maneuvers are part of routine maintenance and address the need to mitigate the impact of the ash, an external factor affecting ICE’s infrastructure.
Due to these operations, the Toro River’s flow and color may fluctuate, with visible effects from Marsella de San Carlos to Pangola de Sarapiquí. As a precaution, the public is advised to avoid entering the river. ICE is conducting communication campaigns and biological, hydrological, and social monitoring to ensure the safety of both the operations and nearby communities.
These essential maintenance operations highlight the challenges faced by hydroelectric plants in volcanically active regions. The accumulation of volcanic ash presents a unique operational hurdle, necessitating proactive measures to maintain efficient energy generation and ensure the longevity of vital infrastructure.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources for power generation and mitigating the impacts of natural phenomena. ICE’s commitment to regular maintenance and proactive monitoring is crucial for sustaining Costa Rica’s renewable energy supply.
The impact of volcanic activity on water resources is a recurring concern in Costa Rica. The ongoing monitoring and mitigation efforts by ICE demonstrate the importance of adaptive management strategies for ensuring the reliability of the country’s hydroelectric power system.
Further updates on the maintenance operation and the status of the Toro River will be provided by ICE as they become available.
For further information, visit the nearest office of ICE
About ICE:
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is the Costa Rican Electricity Institute, a state-owned utility responsible for electricity generation, transmission, and distribution in Costa Rica. It plays a vital role in the country’s energy sector, focusing on renewable energy sources like hydroelectric power. ICE is committed to sustainable practices and community engagement in its operations.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, driven by a deep-seated commitment to integrity and a passion for innovative solutions. The firm’s legacy is built on empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge, ensuring informed decision-making across all sectors. From pioneering legal strategies to proactive community engagement, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to champion a more just and equitable society, one informed citizen at a time.
