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Costa Rican National Electrical System reform debate

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2026-10-19 21:13 UTC → 2026-10-20 08:45 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Debate has intensified in Costa Rica regarding the National Electrical System Harmonization Law. Legislative opposition has emerged from Deputy Claudia Dobles of the Agenda Ciudadana Coalition, who intends to vote against a proposal to extend the project’s deadline by four years. Dobles raised concerns that the extension could lead to higher electricity tariffs for low-income households, exacerbate inequality between rural areas and the Greater Metropolitan Area, and undermine the solidarity principles of the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE). She also criticized the political negotiations between the Pueblo Soberano Party (PPSO) and the National Liberation Party (PLN). Conversely, the Costa Rican Chamber of Construction (CCC) and the Costa Rican Union of Chambers and Associations of the Private Sector (Uccaep) are urging legislators to finalize agreements on the reform. CCC President Alfredo Volio stated that a reliable and competitively priced electricity supply is essential for infrastructure, housing, and industrial development. Uccaep further argued that energy security discussions should remain separate from debates concerning the Special Fund for Higher Education (FEES). Ultimately, the Legislative Assembly rejected the National Electric System Harmonization Law, resulting in its archiving after failing to secure the required 38 votes. Business organizations, including Uccaep, expressed concern that the rejection represents a setback for investment, job creation, and energy competitiveness. In contrast, members of the Frente Amplio party celebrated the outcome, characterizing the proposal as a “blackout law” that would have caused instability and increased tariffs. The legislative process was further complicated by political tensions involving a motion regarding former deputy Ariel Robles, which led to several congressmen losing their session pay after refusing to vote.

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