Electricity in Costa Rica in 2024

Costa Rica has made remarkable strides in embracing low-carbon electricity, achieving an impressive feat where more than 94% of its electricity is sourced from clean energy. With hydropower contributing a significant portion of about 70%, followed by geothermal sources at roughly 13%, and wind energy supplying just over 10%, the nation is setting a global benchmark for sustainable electricity generation. Fossil energy, on the other hand, constitutes just under 6% of Costa Rica's electricity mix, underscoring the country's commitment to reducing dependence on carbon-intensive sources. Costa Rica's leadership is further cemented by its role as a significant net exporter of electricity, aiding neighboring countries in reducing their emissions. Looking forward, the country faces the challenge of amplifying its electricity production even further to power other sectors such as transport, heating, and industry.

Suggestions

To enhance its clean electricity capacity, Costa Rica can focus on expanding its already substantial wind energy infrastructure. This strategy capitalizes on the country's existing strengths in harnessing wind power, which already contributes significantly to its low-carbon electricity profile. By investing in the latest wind technologies and identifying strategic locations for new turbines, Costa Rica can leverage this sustainable resource to meet growing domestic demands and maintain its leadership in exporting green electricity. Such expansions could mitigate the need for fossil fuels in the long run while complementing the stable generation from its hydropower and geothermal resources.

History

Tracing back through Costa Rica's history of low-carbon electricity generation, hydropower has been a constantly evolving sector since the early 1980s, exemplified by consistent increases throughout the decade. Notable increments occurred in the mid-1990s with a significant 1 TWh rise in 1997, albeit with intermittent small declines. In the early years of the 21st century, particularly around 2000 and 2004, hydropower saw further increments, with a peak boost in 2015 of 1.3 TWh. Geothermal energy saw a pivotal increase in 1992 and later in 2019, enhancing its contribution to the low-carbon mix. Wind energy emerged as a significant player in 2018, contributing further to the sustainable energy landscape. Costa Rica's strategic and continued dedication to hydropower, geothermal, and wind has built a robust clean electricity sector and laid a strong foundation for the country to tackle the next steps in its energy transition.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources