Impact of Electrical Blackouts in Costa Rica: Understanding the current energy crisis in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is currently grappling with an energy crisis, resulting in power outages and rationing measures implemented by the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE). These disruptions have impacted communities nationwide, prompting concerns and calls for action. Since last week, the reasons behind these power outages have been explained, yet the impact on residents is still a topic to discuss, such as the schedule modifications announced by the authorities to manage the situation effectively, including the schedules of power outages in the Guanacaste area.

The Situation of Electrical Blackouts in the Energy Crisis of Costa Rica

The energy crisis in Costa Rica has been triggered by several factors, including declining hydroelectric power generation due to declining water levels in reservoirs, limited access to imported fuels, and the effects of climate phenomena such as El Niño. Clearly this is not a problem that only Costa Rica faces, since energy crises occur in other Latin American countries.

Apart from the droughts, problems were also noted with the production of wind energy due to wind currents. These factors added to the delay in thermal energy from private companies for this year. Consequently, ICE has implemented a series of scheduled power outages, where the outages may last up to three hours. Additionally, society’s collaboration was requested to execute rationing measures to relieve pressure on the electrical grid and address the shortage. 

Impact of power outages on residents and the general population of Costa Rica

Regardless of the type of residence or address, power outages and rationing measures can disrupt the lives of residents and significantly affect daily routines and compromise comfort and safety. From navigating dark homes to dealing with losing power from essential appliances, households face challenges due to energy instability. Clearly the consequences of the electrical blackouts underline the importance of the preparation and resilience of all people to face this crisis, which as highlighted by Roberto Quirós, manager of the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE), “This Niño has been the most complicated in the history of Costa Rica”.

Modifications to Electricity Schedules and Rationing in Recent Days

To effectively manage the energy crisis, ICE has modified power outage schedules, specifying the days and times when certain areas will experience outages. These modifications aim to distribute the impact of power outages evenly across communities while ensuring that essential services, especially areas such as hospitals, continue to operate.

Each area of the country will vary its episodes of power outages, but each electricity distributor, depending on its area, has kept up to date with the schedules and days, being constantly updated, day by day. It was expected that the periods would begin last Monday, but they have been delayed due to rain and other factors, mainly due to the protocol in obtaining a slight recovery of the reservoirs and energy production. This does not imply that power cuts, these prolonged power blackouts do not happen, since according to protocol they must be implemented by having a minimum reserve for 10 days, responding to 100% of the national demand, therefore the “project” is only being momentarily paused.

Advice from Authorities by the Electrical Blackouts: Solutions to mitigate electrical blackouts

Using energy-efficient appliances and lighting fixtures

One effective way to mitigate energy consumption is by investing in energy-efficient appliances and lighting fixtures. By opting for appliances with high Energy Star ratings and LED lighting fixtures, homeowners can significantly reduce their electricity usage. These energy-efficient options not only lower utility bills but also contribute to environmental sustainability by decreasing overall energy demand.

Many electronic devices consume energy even when they are turned off, a phenomenon known as phantom energy consumption. To prevent this wasteful practice, homeowners should make a habit of unplugging electronics when they are not in use. Using power strips with surge protectors can also help to easily disconnect multiple devices at once, further minimizing phantom energy consumption and conserving electricity.

Setting thermostats to optimal temperatures to reduce heating and cooling energy usage

Maintaining optimal temperatures in the home can significantly impact energy usage, particularly in heating and cooling systems. By setting thermostats to appropriate levels—lowering them in winter and raising them in summer—homeowners can reduce the workload on their HVAC systems and conserve energy. Additionally, programmable thermostats offer the convenience of automatically adjusting temperatures based on daily schedules, further optimizing energy efficiency.

Utilizing natural lighting and ventilation whenever possible

Harnessing natural resources such as sunlight and fresh air can help reduce the need for artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation systems. Designing homes with strategically placed windows, skylights, and light tubes maximizes natural light penetration, illuminating interiors without relying on electric lighting during the day. Similarly, promoting cross-ventilation and airflow through well-placed windows and vents enhances indoor air quality and reduces reliance on air conditioning systems.

Encouraging the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar panels

Embracing renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, offers a sustainable solution to energy generation while reducing dependence on traditional grid-based electricity. Installing solar panels on rooftops or in open spaces allows homeowners to harness the power of the sun to generate clean, renewable energy for their homes. By incentivizing and promoting the adoption of solar energy systems, communities can transition towards a more sustainable energy future, mitigating the impact of power outages and promoting energy resilience.

Short-Term Solutions Tips

During impending and periodic power outages, homeowners can take short-term steps to mitigate their impact. Stocking up on emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food is essential to ease discomfort during power outage periods. Investing in portable generators or power banks offers temporary relief by powering essential devices and appliances until grid power is restored.

But to protect the devices during power fluctuations, you can consider using voltage regulators or stabilizers. These devices prevent connection during voltage variations until the voltage is regulated, ensuring the safety of electronic equipment.

The dependence on hydraulic energy symbolizes a greater rationing of resource

As we have mentioned, the request for energy savings is mainly due to the insufficient generation of hydroelectric energy, which historically has been the main source of energy in Costa Rica. Declining water levels in reservoirs reduced hydropower production capacity and led to dependence on other energy sources.Given this situation, the population has also been urged to make more efficient use of water, not only to preserve this vital resource, but also to mitigate the effects of the energy crisis and guarantee a more stable and sustainable electricity supply in the future.

Collaborating with Sustainable Partnerships

After overcoming this energy crisis, it is recommended to continue taking action to save energy. Partnering with organizations and initiatives dedicated to sustainability and environmental management to achieve better rationing and amplifying the impact is a good option. This may include joining green building certification programs like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or collaborating with local utilities and government agencies that promote energy-saving efficiency. These actions contribute to building more sustainable communities for future generations.

For more information on how you can help mitigate the impact of power outages and discover sustainable energy solutions, we invite you to contact us through our contact form or via WhatsApp – we’re here to help!