The Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) has implemented a new methodology for purchasing surplus energy from individuals and companies using the net metering model. This change will result in an average increase of 111% in the prices paid for surplus energy.
The updated approach introduces two purchase blocks. The first is variable, focused on solar energy, where pricing will depend on geographic location. The second block covers firm sources, such as solar with storage or biomass, and will offer higher prices regardless of location, provided technical requirements are met.
ICE states that this scheme aims to create a mutually beneficial relationship for all network customers, distributed generators, and ICE itself. Contracts under this new system will have an initial term of eight years, with the possibility of two annual extensions. The revised methodology applies only to new distributed generators.
Marco Acuña, president of Grupo ICE, said: “We reiterate our support for distributed generators in our concession area. We need timely, responsible, sustainable and solidarity-based management of national renewable resources. The Institute is essential for establishing technical parameters for this use.”
Currently, ICE has 1,443 distributed generation clients contributing 34 megawatts of capacity. Since the regulation came into effect, ICE has provided monetary compensation for the energy these generators supply to the system.
