BMR Energy’s Costa Rica Solar Project
Diversifying Costa Rica’s Renewable Energy Mix
Context
Costa Rica is known for its commitment to renewable energy and has operated on 98 percent renewable energy since 2014. But while the country has an impressive energy portfolio, most of the nation’s renewable energy is produced by hydroelectric sources, despite an abundance of other natural renewable energy resources like solar and wind.
As one of the largest solar facilities in the country, the Valle Escondido project diversifies Costa Rica’s clean energy mix, and brings the nation one step closer to achieving 100 percent renewable generation.
5 megawatts of power
14,500 solar panels
Located in Bagaces,
Guanacaste Province,
Costa Rica
Expected: COD Q3 2021
Impact
- Supplies 12,000 MWh of power through the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE).
- Local Costa Rican staff provide support for operation and maintenance at the site.
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 7,750 metric tons CO2 equivalent per year.
- Serves as one of the largest utility-scale solar facilities in Costa Rica.
Process
The project had been under development since 2018 but actual implementation of the project was delayed. In 2021, BMR Energy acquired the project from the original developer to bring necessary regional expertise to the facility and began construction shortly after. BMR is now working closely with Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), the Costa Rican national utility that will buy the electricity generated by the plant and supply residents and businesses with clean, renewable energy from the Valle Escondido solar farm.
Beyond the Project
BMR is committed to going beyond energy development to promote thriving, sustainable communities. In Costa Rica, BMR is employing a team of local engineers, project managers, and construction contractors to construct and maintain the facility. The BMR team hopes to continue investing in Costa Rica’s sustainable future.