Umair Gaines
If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica, it's important to know about the electricity supply there. The standard voltage in Costa Rica is 120V, with a frequency of 60Hz, and the power sockets are of type A and B. This is the same as in the US and Canada, so if you're travelling from North America, you won't need a converter or adapter for your electronics. However, if you're coming from Europe, Japan, or another country, you'll need to bring a power plug adapter for type A sockets, and possibly a voltage transformer if your devices aren't dual voltage-rated. It's also worth noting that some remote lodges in Costa Rica don't have electricity, so be sure to check before you go!
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What You'll Learn
Costa Rica's electricity generation mix
Costa Rica has a geographic advantage when it comes to renewable energy output. The country has a high concentration per capita of rivers, dams, and volcanoes, and it is the fourth-highest nation in terms of rainfall per capita, receiving an average of 2,926 mm of precipitation per year.
Costa Rica's largest source of energy is hydropower, which is generated by the country's many dams, including Lake Arenal, Lake Cachi, Rio Macho, Pirrís, and Reventazón. These dams provide enough electricity to power hundreds of thousands of homes in Costa Rica and contribute to the country's goal of reducing its carbon footprint. In addition to hydropower, Costa Rica also generates electricity through geothermal energy, biomass, solar power, and wind power.
Geothermal energy, which is generated by the heat of the earth, is a significant source of energy for Costa Rica, with about 15% of the country's energy coming from this source. Costa Rica has six currently active volcanoes and dozens of inactive ones, providing a vast potential for geothermal power generation.
Solar power currently generates less than 1% of Costa Rica's energy production. However, the country has approved a bill that promotes the generation of distributed energy resources from renewable sources, allowing Costa Ricans to produce and sell their renewable electricity. This, along with investments in emerging clean energy technologies, could help diversify the energy mixture and further decarbonize the economy.
Wind power has been identified as a major contributor to Costa Rica's clean energy profile and can be efficiently scaled up. The country has also seen a decrease in electricity consumption per capita, which could be concerning in terms of meeting future demand. However, with its diverse energy sources and focus on sustainability, Costa Rica maintains its leadership in clean energy generation.
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Hydropower and other renewable sources
Costa Rica's largest source of energy is hydropower, which is generated by the country's many rivers and dams. Lake Arenal, for example, provides enough electricity to power 12% of the country. Other major dams include Lake Cachi, Rio Macho, Pirrís, and Reventazón. The country's abundant natural resources, including its high concentration of rivers, dams, and volcanoes, give it a geographic advantage in renewable energy production.
Geothermal energy, which is derived from volcanic activity, is another important source of renewable energy in Costa Rica. With six active volcanoes and many more inactive ones, the country has a significant geothermal potential. Geothermal energy currently provides about 15% of the country's energy.
Costa Rica has also embraced other renewable energy sources, such as biomass, solar power, and wind power. In 2020, renewable energy sources supplied 99.78% of the country's energy output, with 72% coming from hydroelectric power and 15% from geothermal energy. The country has set ambitious climate goals, aiming to achieve and maintain 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030.
The Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE) plays a crucial role in the country's energy sector, generating about 75% of its electricity. ICE is a state-owned enterprise that, together with its subsidiary, the National Power and Light Company, supplies electricity to the central and metropolitan areas. Municipal companies and rural cooperatives also play a significant role, together accounting for about 20% of electricity sales.
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The role of the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE)
The Costa Rican Institute of Electricity, or ICE, holds a monopoly over electricity distribution and generation in Costa Rica. There are some exceptions where other public institutions, private companies, and cooperatives are legally authorised to generate and sell electricity. The most notable exception is the National Energy and Light Company (CNFL), which is a subsidiary of ICE.
ICE plays a crucial role in Costa Rica's renewable energy sector. In 2020, renewable energy sources supplied 99.78% of the country's energy output. The majority of this renewable energy came from hydroelectric power (72%) and geothermal energy (15%). Costa Rica has a geographical advantage in renewable energy generation due to its high concentration of rivers, dams, and volcanoes. Lake Arenal, for example, provides enough electricity to power 12% of the country. The country also receives an abundance of rainfall, with an average of 2,926 mm of precipitation per year.
ICE has been investing in long-term accumulative batteries and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The increase in EV usage is expected to lead to higher electricity consumption. ICE is also focusing on solar power, with the Costa Rican government approving a bill in November 2021 that allows citizens to produce and sell their own renewable electricity. However, solar power currently contributes to less than 1% of the country's energy production.
ICE faces competition from Chinese brands in the solar energy market, with Asian-made solar panels being available at a much lower cost. Despite this competition, ICE is committed to increasing the adoption of renewable energy sources. Costa Rica has set a climate goal to achieve and maintain 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030.
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The impact of privatisation
Costa Rica has long had a successful publicly governed electricity system, with a unique combination of state-owned utilities, regional and municipal enterprises, and rural electricity cooperatives. However, since the 1990s, this model has faced challenges due to privatisation and resistance from social and environmental movements.
One positive impact of privatisation has been increased investment in the electricity sector. Private companies have brought new capital and expertise, leading to the development of new power generation infrastructure. This has helped to expand Costa Rica's electricity generation capacity and improve the reliability of the electricity supply.
However, the privatisation of the electricity sector has also had negative consequences. One of the main concerns is the potential for higher prices. Private companies are profit-driven and may prioritise financial returns over affordable prices for consumers. This could lead to increased electricity costs for households and businesses, particularly if there is limited competition in the market.
Another challenge arising from privatisation is the potential for unequal access to electricity. Private companies may focus on serving more profitable areas or customers, potentially neglecting rural or low-income regions. This could exacerbate existing inequalities and leave some communities without reliable access to electricity.
Additionally, privatisation has led to a loss of public control over a vital sector. In the past, Costa Rica's publicly governed electricity system allowed for greater democratic oversight and alignment with the country's social and environmental goals. With privatisation, decision-making power shifts to private companies, potentially prioritising profits over the public interest.
Overall, the impact of privatisation on Costa Rica's electricity sector has been mixed. While it has brought benefits in terms of increased investment and capacity, there are also concerns about the potential negative consequences for consumers, including higher prices, unequal access, and reduced democratic control. Balancing the benefits of privatisation with the need to ensure equitable and affordable access to electricity remains a key challenge for Costa Rica's energy policy.
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Electricity for tourists and travellers
Electricity in Costa Rica is primarily generated through renewable energy sources, with hydropower being the largest source of energy in the country. Costa Rica has a unique combination of state-owned utilities, regional and municipal enterprises, and rural electricity cooperatives that contribute to its electricity system.
For travellers and tourists, here is some essential information about electricity in Costa Rica:
Power Sources
Costa Rica has a strong focus on renewable energy sources, and in 2020, renewable energy supplied 99.78% of the country's energy output. Hydropower is the most important source of energy, with the Lake Arenal Dam, Lake Cachi Dam, Rio Macho Dam, and other dams providing hydroelectric power. Geothermal energy from volcanoes, biomass, solar power, and wind power also contribute to the country's energy mix.
Electricity Access
According to the World Bank, 99.5% of Costa Rica's population has access to electricity. However, it's important to note that some remote jungle lodges and rural areas may not have electricity, so be sure to check with your accommodation provider if this is a concern.
Electrical Outlets and Plug Types
The standard voltage in Costa Rica is 120 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz. The plugs are typically 2-pronged flat types, similar to those used in the US. Therefore, US travellers may not need a converter or adapter for most of their electronic devices. However, if you are bringing any electronics that require different plug types, don't forget to pack the appropriate adapters.
Electric Vehicle Charging
If you plan to travel by electric vehicle (EV), you'll be glad to know that EV charging stations have been installed throughout the country. Many supermarkets and businesses are also installing EV chargers for their customers.
Costs of Electricity
Electricity in Costa Rica is not cheap, with an average cost of USD 0.28 per kilowatt-hour. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you plan to stay in accommodations that require electricity for an extended period.
Environmental Impact
Costa Rica has positioned itself as a pioneer in low-carbon electricity generation and sustainable energy practices. The country has set ambitious climate goals, aiming to achieve and maintain 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030.
In summary, travellers and tourists can expect reliable access to electricity in most parts of Costa Rica, especially in urban areas and modern accommodations. The country's commitment to renewable energy sources and low-carbon electricity generation contributes to a more sustainable future. However, be mindful of your electricity usage due to the relatively high cost of electricity in the country.
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Frequently asked questions
The main sources of electricity in Costa Rica are hydropower, geothermal energy, biomass, solar power, and wind power.
Costa Rica's electricity consumption has been increasing due to a high level of electrification. In 2024, the electricity consumption per capita was 2411 kWh, down from a peak of 2516 kWh in 2021. The country aims to achieve and maintain 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030.
Costa Rica power outlets are typically the 2-pronged flat type, which is compatible with US electronics. US travelers will not usually need a converter or adapter.
