Grupo ICE has announced investments exceeding ₡150 billion in completed and ongoing projects aimed at supporting the development of Guanacaste. The organization detailed its recent activities during the opening of a new integrated agency in Cañas, highlighting efforts to improve electricity and telecommunications infrastructure across the region.
The event was attended by Rodrigo Chaves, president of Costa Rica, Marco Acuña Mora, president of Grupo ICE, along with other officials from the institute, executive branch representatives, local governments, universities, public institutions, community organizations, and residents.
Among the projects underway are the construction of new substations La Cruz and Fortuna. These facilities represent a combined investment of more than ₡21.6 billion and are intended to support population growth as well as commercial and tourism development in Guanacaste.
Rural electrification is also progressing. Communities such as Zapote de Pijije in Bagaces and Nuevo Arenal will receive electricity for the first time. In total, 2,000 people are expected to gain access to electrical service through initiatives totaling ₡25 billion between 2024 and 2025.
Grupo ICE is carrying out projects aimed at sustainability and water security. This includes building Pozo El Cedro in Liberia—an investment of over ₡115 million that will supply potable water to 500 people—and constructing road infrastructure connecting six communities in Liberia to serve 3,500 residents and support local tourism.
The organization reported that renewable energy generation remains central to its strategy. Construction on the Borinquen Geothermal Plant has surpassed 50% completion with an investment close to ₡40 billion. Preparations have begun for a future solar plant in Abangares that will provide 66 megawatts of clean energy—enough for approximately 55,000 homes.
Investment also extends to internet connectivity. Grupo ICE has installed 417 kilometers of fiber optic cable throughout Guanacaste province. There are now 19 physical customer service locations in operation. Through FONATEL programs, they have established 137 new telecommunications sites serving nearly 900 communities and over 230 public centers.
“Esta es una rendición de cuentas que nos llena de orgullo. Porque no hablamos de promesas, sino de obras concretas, en marcha o entregadas. Guanacaste merece inversión, futuro y bienestar, y eso es lo que hacemos desde nuestra Corporación, con el respaldo del Gobierno de la República”, expresó Marco Acuña, presidente de Grupo ICE.
The newly opened Integrated Agency in Cañas represents an investment close to ₡640 million. The facility is expected to save money for Grupo ICE by eliminating rental costs while providing modern services within a dedicated space covering 350 square meters designed for more than 13,000 clients.
The agency features six service windows along with large areas for self-service and back office operations under standards meant to ensure efficiency and safety for both staff members and customers—including visitors from abroad.
“Esta agencia es una promesa cumplida. Deja a la vista un cantón próspero y un Grupo ICE fuerte, que ha sido un motor de desarrollo económico, social y ambiental, con valor para las comunidades de todo el país. Hoy les entregamos a los guanacastecos calidad de vida, con servicios de primer mundo”, manifestó el jerarca Acuña.
