Costa Rica has reached an impressive level of low-carbon electricity generation, currently obtaining a staggering 98.4% of its electricity from clean sources. This includes significant contributions from hydropower, which accounts for more than three-quarters of the electricity produced, as well as wind and geothermal energy, each contributing slightly over a tenth to the mix. Fossil fuels play a marginal role, generating only 1.6% of the electricity. Over the past 12 months spanning from September 2024 to August 2025, the nation has been on a steady path of using sustainable energy resources. The next step for Costa Rica involves expanding its electrical capabilities to power other sectors such as transportation, heating, and industry, which will inevitably require an increase in electricity generation to support this transition.
Is Electricity Growing in Costa Rica?
Observing the recent trends, it is evident that electricity consumption in Costa Rica is experiencing modest growth. In 2025, the total consumption reached 2,550 kWh per person, a slight increase from the previous high of 2,516 kWh per person recorded in 2021. This reflects a welcome boost in overall electricity use. However, in terms of low-carbon electricity generation specifically, there has been a slight dip. The country produced 2,510 kWh of low-carbon electricity per person in 2025, which is marginally lower than the 2021 figure of 2,516 kWh per person. While the growth in overall consumption is positive, the slight decline in low-carbon electricity generation highlights the need for further expansion in this area.
Suggestions
To meet future electricity demands and continue its sustainable energy journey, Costa Rica could focus on expanding its wind power capabilities. The existing wind energy infrastructure already contributes a substantial portion of clean electricity, making it a viable candidate for scaling up. By increasing investment in wind energy projects, Costa Rica can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation and maintain its commitment to sustainable development. Additionally, exploring opportunities in solar and even nuclear energy would further ensure that the country remains at the forefront of clean electricity generation, thereby reducing dependency on fossil fuels and addressing climate change concerns.
History
In the early 1980s, Costa Rica began augmenting its hydropower capabilities with incremental increases in electricity production. For instance, there was a 0.5 TWh increase in 1980, followed by further growth in 1983 and throughout the 1990s. The 1990s also saw a diversification in low-carbon sources, with geothermal energy making its first significant impression in 1992. Entering the 21st century, hydro continued to be a powerhouse, with notable expansions in several years, despite occasional declines. By 2018, wind energy also began contributing to the mix, marking a key development in Costa Rica's clean energy story. These sustained investments in diverse low-carbon energy sources have been pivotal in shaping Costa Rica’s commendable electricity landscape today.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.