Top Best Power Plants in Costa Rica for 2024

Beautiful Costa Rica is well-known for its varied species and well-preserved natural areas. Although many may consider Costa Rica to be a haven for ecotourism, the nation’s infrastructure is also expanding. The country is home to numerous production facilities and power plants that can provide the nation with electricity. An overview of all the power plants and production facilities in Costa Rica is given in this page, along with details on each one’s location, output, capacity, and type. A summary of the prospects and existing sustainability-related issues facing Costa Rica’s energy market is also included in the research. This data guarantees that Costa Rica’s energy needs are satisfied while encouraging the nation to use energy in a sustainable and ethical manner.

The list of all Costa Rican nuclear, hydroelectric, solar, wind, oil, and gas power stations is provided below.

List of all Power Plants in Costa Rica in table format

We have made the following table, which includes a list of all Costa Rican power plants, for the convenience of our readers:

Information Sources: Wiki-Solar, GEODB

Best Power Plants in Costa Rica in 2023

Below is information about Costa Rica’s top power plant:

Powerplant Alberto Echandi Hydroelectric Station Costa Rica Reviews

The expected electricity generation of Costa Rica’s Alberto Echandi Hydroelectric Station is 4.7 MW. The station is located at longitude -84.4383 and latitude 10.3916. It started operating at 14.49. This power plant uses hydropower, which captures the kinetic energy from local water sources, as its main fuel source.

An important infrastructure for Costa Rica is the Alberto Echandi Hydroelectric Station. Since the station opened in 14.49, thousands of residents in the vicinity have benefited from the heat and electricity it produces. The station also contributes to the reduction of expenses related to pricey fossil fuels, giving consumers access to reasonably priced power with less environmental impact.

Costa Rica’s dedication to sustainable energy is symbolized by the Alberto Echandi Hydroelectric Station. It has become a valuable asset for the country and the towns around it because of its ability to produce 4.7 MW of clean power. The website demonstrates the nation’s dedication to sustainable practices and aids in lowering the nation’s carbon impact.

Powerplant Angostura Hydroelectric Power Station Costa Rica Reviews

The coordinates of the Angostura Hydroelectric Power Station are 9.9221, -83.6423, respectively, for the location of the facility in Costa Rica. This power plant was established in the year 749.66 and has a 210 megawatt capacity. Hydroelectric electricity is the main fuel used in this power plant.

An excellent illustration of using the force of nature to generate electricity is the Angostura Hydroelectric Power Station. Hydropower is a renewable energy source. This plant aids in the preservation of natural resources because water serves as its main fuel source. Its generation of sustainable and green energy also contributes to the reduction of global warming.

Because Costa Rica produces enough electricity from renewable sources to suit local demands, the Angostura Hydroelectric Power Station and other facilities contribute to the country’s continued status as a model of sustainability. Because this form of energy generation has lower operational costs, it also contributes to lowering the cost of electricity in the area.

Powerplant Arenal Hydroelectric Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

Hydroelectric power is the main fuel used by the Arenal Hydroelectric Power Plant, which is situated in Arenal, Costa Rica. The capacity of this power plant is 157.5. To be more precise, its coordinates are 10.4755 latitude and -84.9989 longitude. The plant began producing power in 590.59, and 85% power generation is anticipated.

One of Costa Rica’s largest hydroelectric power generators is the Arenal Hydroelectric Power Plant. This is partly because of its highly effective contributing elements, which include consistent elevation and heavy rainfall. Since it started operating in 59059, this hydroelectric power plant has provided the nation with a stable and environmentally friendly supply of energy. Given that the facility is close to other hydroelectric plants, it has been extremely beneficial to Costa Rica.

Powerplant Birris 1 Hydroelectric Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

Costa Rica is home to the Birris 1 Hydroelectric Power Plant. Its coordinates are 9.866 degrees north latitude and 83.7771 degrees west longitude. The power plant is a significant addition to the nation’s power generation sources because it can produce 18.6 megawatts of electricity. The Birris 1 power station generated an estimated 69.61GWh of energy annually when it started operating in May 2020.

Hydropower, a renewable energy source, powers the Birris 1 Hydroelectric Power Plant. The energy of falling water is harnessed by hydro power to produce electricity. Hydro power plants use rivers or lakes to harness the gravitational potential energy of the water and transform it into electrical energy. This sustainable renewable energy source lessens the nation’s dependency on fossil fuels.

Powerplant Birris 3 Hydroelectric Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

Situated in Costa Rica, the Birris 3 Hydroelectric Power Plant generates 4.4 MW of electricity. The power plant can be found at latitude -83.7869 and longitude 9.8944. The hydroelectric power produced by the surrounding rivers serves as the main fuel source for the power plant. Since its official opening on 15.99, the power plant has produced enough electricity to power thousands of houses in the neighborhood.

The nearby town gains a great deal from the hydroelectric power plant. By conserving the area’s natural resources, the power and electricity produced by the Birris 3 Hydroelectric Power Plant not only serves to safeguard the environment but also offers steady and dependable electricity for homes and businesses. Furthermore, the hydroelectric power plant stimulates the local economy and helps to provide jobs for locals.

Powerplant Boca de Pozo Geothermal Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

With a 5 MW capacity, the Boca de Pozo power plant in Costa Rica is the nation’s first geothermal power plant. It is situated at longitude 85.1942 W and latitude 10.7041 N. Geothermal energy serves as this power plant’s main fuel source.

The Boca de Pozo Power Plant, which was put into service in 2010, has a 41,400 MWh yearly generation capacity. It is a crucial component of Costa Rica’s energy policy, which strives to utilize renewable energy sources to the greatest extent possible.

The plant has been among Costa Rica’s most profitable and dependable electricity plants ever since it went online. Compared to alternative energy sources, this power plant has been able to lessen its impact on the air and water through the use of geothermal energy.

Powerplant Buenos Aires de Pocosol Reviews

With a 5 megawatt capacity, the Buenos Aires de Pocosol powerhouse is situated at 10.58 North Latitude and 84.505 West Longitude. The plant started operating on September 23 and uses solar energy as its main fuel source. In the immediate vicinity, the power plant is expected to produce enough electricity to run 5,000 houses and businesses.

Buenos Aires de Pocosol takes a step toward a more sustainable energy future by joining the solar energy revolution. This power plant complements Costa Rica’s attempts to shift to renewable energy sources, and its completion date aligns with the nation’s objective of producing 90% of its energy from renewable sources by 2021. It will undoubtedly be economical in the long run and represents a major turning point in the nation’s transition to sustainable energy.

The electricity produced by the power plant is anticipated to lower energy costs and provide dependable energy sources, making it a tremendous asset to the neighborhood. It is anticipated to benefit the surrounding environment as well. The Buenos Aires de Pocosol powerhouse, which is expected to generate up to 48.8 megawatt-hours annually, is a significant addition to the regional energy system.

Powerplant Cachi Hydroelectric Power Station Costa Rica Reviews

The coordinates for the Cachi Hydroelectric Power Station are 9.8407 North and 83.8037 West in Costa Rica. The electricity station, which has a 102 megawatt capacity, began operations in 4006.55. Hydroelectricity is its main fuel source for power generation. It is currently one of the nation’s busiest energy producing sources and has been operating for more than 40 years.

The dam in Cachi, which was constructed to collect the Bolivar River’s runoff, provides electricity for the power plant. In order to provide a consistent flow of power production, the dam included a water power-generating plant that was integrated into the Cachi station. In addition, the power plant supplies electricity to more than 65000 households in the surrounding areas and acts as a major energy source for a number of neighboring regions.

Powerplant Corobici (Miguel Pablo Dengo) Hydroelectric Power Plan Reviews

The coordinates of the Corobici (Miguel Pablo Dengo) Hydroelectric Power Plant in Costa Rica are 10.4695 latitude and -85.0763 longitude. With a 180 megawatt output capacity and an annual generation of 674.96 GWh, the power plant was put into service in April 2010 and is the largest hydropower station in Costa Rica.

As one of six interconnected hydroelectric plants that supply energy to the entire nation, the Corobici Hydroelectric Power Plant is a component of Costa Rica’s national energy production network. The facility has four 45 MW producing units that get their energy from the water in the nearby Corobici River. It runs on a run-of-the-river design, which means no permanent storage is set up. The 24 km2 drainage area allows for the stretching and exploitation of the hydroelectric power capability in the area, supplying electricity to both the national grid and the local population.

Powerplant Don Pedro Hydroelectric Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

With a 14MW overall capacity, the Don Pedro Hydroelectric Power Plant in Costa Rica uses hydropower. It began operations in 1951 and is located at latitude 10.313 and longitude -84.172. 51.04 MW is the estimated power generation. This power plant can generate electricity by using the flow of water via its turbines, typically from lakes and rivers.

The Don Pedro Hydroelectric Power Plant uses the natural resource of rivers to transform kinetic energy into electricity, helping to meet Costa Rica’s energy needs. Because it runs without fossil fuels, it has a favorable effect on the environment. In addition to being dependable and green, the electricity generated results in effective power generation. Furthermore, the energy generated reduces emissions brought on by greenhouse gasses because it doesn’t contaminate the environment.

Powerplant Garabito ICE Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

With a 200 megawatt (MW) capacity, the Garabito ICE Power Plant is situated in Costa Rica at 10.0444 longitude and 84.7601 latitude. Oil serves as the plant’s main fuel source. The Garabito ICE Powerplant began operations in 2010, and it is expected that the natural gas it produces equals around 860 gigawatt hours of energy annually.

Costa Rica’s renewable energy aspirations are significantly aided by the economical Garabito ICE Power Plant. Moreover, the plant burns very high-quality natural gas. It is anticipated that the new natural gas supply will also result in better local air quality.

One of the Power Plant’s sustainability objectives is to help Costa Rica reach its 2030 carbon neutrality target. It also uses best management practices and innovative technologies to lessen the possible negative effects of oil and gas extraction on the environment. The Garabito ICE Power Plant is actively involved in research initiatives pertaining to clean technology and renewable energy as part of its commitment to sustainability.

Powerplant La Garita Hydroelectic Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

One of the biggest hydroelectric power plants in the nation and a major energy provider in the area is the La Garita Hydropower Plant, which is situated in Costa Rica. When finished, it will be situated at 9.9853 and -84.339 degrees latitude and longitude, respectively, with an installed capacity of 113.71 MW. Hydropower will be the power plant’s main fuel source. The plant is expected to be finished with construction by 2022, when it will be able to start producing power.

The La Garita Hydropower Plant is a component of Costa Rica’s greater endeavor to become a pioneer in renewable energy and to lessen its carbon impact. Costa Rica is expanding its green energy portfolio to include wind, solar, and geothermal projects in addition to hydroelectric power. The nation aims to run fully on renewable energy by 2022.

Powerplant La Joya Hydroelectric Power Station Costa Rica Reviews

The coordinates of the La Joya Hydroelectric Power Station are 9.8546 latitude and -83.685 longitude in Costa Rica. Owned by Costa Rica Electricity Institute, the 1920-built hydroelectric power facility has a 192.07 MW capacity. Water is the main fuel utilized in the La Joya Hydroelectric Power Station to turn turbines, which produce electricity.

Constructed shortly after Costa Rica’s initial power plant, La Joya Hydroelectric Power Station boasts an extensive past. The hydroelectric power station installation took an additional 29 years after the original building was completed in 1891. After it was finished, the plant produced 19.2 mw for the neighborhood, which is about 1,000 households’ worth of electricity. Considering that the prior power plant was a steam-driven turbine that produced only 3 mw, this was a significant advance.

Powerplant Miravalles I and II Geothermal Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

The Costa Rican Miravalles I and II Geothermal Power Plant can produce up to 115 MW of electricity from geothermal energy. The coordinates of its location are 10.7002 N and 85.1944 W. With a projected 38.2 MW of electricity generation capacity, the Miravalles I and II electricity Plant began operations in 1999. A second phase of the power plant was started later in 2008, with a projected final generation capacity of 115 MW.

The power plant is one of the nation’s greatest providers of geothermal energy since it makes use of these resources. It meets the need for electricity in major locations and offers a clean, safe, and renewable energy source that supplements the country’s electrical grid. Additionally, the power plant helps ensure that the environment is used sustainably for coming generations.

Powerplant Miravalles III Geothermal Power Plant Costa Rica Reviews

The coordinates of the Miravalles III Geothermal Power Plant in Costa Rica are 10.718 latitude and -85.1819 longitude. It uses geothermal energy and has a 27.5 MW capacity. Since it began operating in 1991, the power plant has produced enough energy to cover the demands of over 33,400 households.

One of the most effective and environmentally friendly ways to produce energy is through geothermal power. It utilizes the local geothermal resources as effectively as possible while producing no emissions into the atmosphere. The Miravalles III Power Plant is only one of many that help Costa Rica become one of the most energy self-sufficient nations in the region, since it is one of the top producers of geothermal energy.

FAQ

Q. What is the primary source of energy in Costa Rica?

A. Hydroelectric power plants produce over 80% of Costa Rica’s electricity. Together, the two biggest facilities in the nation—Chirrip and Arenal—provide almost half of the electricity produced nationwide.

Q. How much is the annual energy generation from power plants in Costa Rica?

A. 3,207 MW of installed capacity and 11,500 GWH of annual power production are the total amounts of electricity generated in Costa Rica.

Q. Are there any renewable energy sources utilized by power plants in Costa Rica?

A. Yes, renewable energy sources are used, especially in isolated areas without grid connection. These include wind, solar photovoltaic, geothermal, and biomass energy. The present objective of Costa Rica is to run its whole economy entirely on renewable energy.

Q. Is there any governmental organization dedicated to maintain the functioning of power plants in Costa Rica?

A. Indeed, the company in charge of producing, distributing, and marketing electricity in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE). ICE is in charge of running the other power facilities in addition to the hydroelectric ones.

Q. What potential is there for further development of power plants in Costa Rica?

A. Costa Rica has the capacity to develop its power plants further. ICE is currently investigating alternative energy sources, such solar and wind, to make sure Costa Rica can continue to meet its energy needs. To lessen reliance on hydroelectric power, research is also being done on the building of geothermal plants.

I hope you find the information about all Costa Rican power plants that I have provided above interesting. If you do, please leave a comment.