Costa Rica is a remarkable example of clean electricity achievement by generating more than 98% of its electricity from low-carbon sources in the past year, spanning from May 2025 to April 2026. The dominant contributor to this green energy mix is hydropower, accounting for nearly three-quarters of the total electricity generation. Wind energy and geothermal sources also play significant roles, supplying about 12% and 11%, respectively. The reliance on fossil fuels is minimal, representing a mere 2% of electricity production. This commitment to clean energy sets a high benchmark, but with the growing need to electrify transportation, heating, and industrial sectors, Costa Rica must further bolster its electricity capacity.

Is Electricity Growing in Costa Rica?

Despite the outstanding percentage of clean electricity, Costa Rica is experiencing a slight stagnation in overall electricity consumption. The latest per capita electricity consumption is slightly lower compared to the previous year's record, with a decrease from 2552 kWh/person in 2025 to 2541 kWh/person in 2026. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person has seen a minor decline from 2519 kWh/person to 2494 kWh/person over the same period. While these shifts are subtle, they highlight the need for more robust growth in electricity generation to ensure future demand is met, especially as non-electric sectors begin to transition to electric alternatives.

Suggestions

Costa Rica can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding its existing wind energy infrastructure. Given its significant contribution to the electricity mix and Costa Rica's favorable conditions for wind energy, further investment in this sector would be a strategic move. Alongside this, adding solar and nuclear energy to the mix could provide additional diversification and resilience in electricity generation. The expansion of these clean energy technologies will be crucial in supporting the electrification of other sectors and addressing electricity demand growth while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

History

Historically, Costa Rica has demonstrated consistent progress in expanding its low-carbon electricity generation. Starting from the 1980s, hydropower saw incremental growth, setting the foundation for the country's green electricity landscape. Notably, in the 1990s, geothermal energy emerged as a significant contributor, with a noteworthy increase in 1992. The subsequent decades maintained momentum with consistent increases in hydroelectric power, occasionally punctuated by minor declines but also significant boosts, such as the impressive growth in 2015 and 2025. Wind energy also entered the scene with a marked increase in 2018. This historical trend underscores a sustained commitment to clean electricity, setting a precedent for future advancements in low-carbon technologies.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (May 2025 – Apr 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.