How is electricity used in Costa Rica?

Electricity can be generated in two main ways: by harnessing the heat from burning fuels or nuclear reactions in the form of steam (thermal power) or by capturing the energy of natural forces such as the sun, wind or moving water.

How many kW can a power plant produce in Costa Rica?

The power generation plants in Costa Rica can jointly produce 3.5 million kW. This is the average composi-tion of the Costa Rican matrix: The Energy Matrix is the total percentage of all natural resources from which energy is derived and then transformed into electricity to supply households, business and industries.

What type of transmission system is used in Costa Rica?

Three-phase: Used in the industrial and commercial sectors where higher power levels are needed. It allows for efficient energy supply to larger equipment and industrial motors. High voltage: Costa Rica has a high-voltage transmission network that allows efficient transportation for large volumes of energy.

Which energy sources are used in Costa Rica?

Hydropower leads the Costa Rican energy matrix with 71.95%, followed by geothermal (14.90%) and wind (12.39%). Biomass and solar energy contribute 0.54%.

What is the energy matrix in Costa Rica?

The Energy Matrix is the total percentage of all natural resources from which energy is derived and then transformed into electricity to supply households, business and industries. In Costa Rica, ICE is in charge of managing and controlling this matrix through its National Control Center (CENCE) and the National Electric System (SEN).

What is Costa Rica's energy policy?

Costa Rica’s energy policy aims to move from a fossil fuels based energy system towards renewable energy sources and to expand its power generation capacity, replacing old power generating stations and developing new projects.