Costa Rica Bans Hydroelectric River Projects in Manuel Antonio and Dominical

President Luis Guillermo Solis recently issued an executive order that will ban the development of hydroelectric power plants for the next 25 years along the Savegre River near Manuel Antonio and Dominical as well as the Pacuare River. The order is part of an environmental protection measure covering all power projects with the capacity to produce 500 kilovolts or more in an effort to keep rivers clean in keeping with the 2015-2030 National Energy Plan.

The Pacuare River, situated near the Caribbean region of Costa Rica, was selected by officials as well as the Savegre River, which is located about 15 minutes south of Manuel Antonio and 15 minutes north of Dominical. The rivers were selected due to their vital ecosystems, pristine condition, environmental value, social value, and economic significance.

According to Solis, the development of Costa Rica, while important, must take into consideration environmental, energy, social, and economic factors. The president stated that it is essential for the country to manage natural resources in a manner that allows for their protection.

While the Pacuare River is considered a model for tourism industry development, the Savegre River is home to one of the country's most diverse environmental basins, with some 47 ecosystems identified to date.

Because of the executive order, work has been suspended on any new hydroelectric power projects under consideration by the National Water Administration and the Environmental Technical Secretariat. Any developmental rights that were acquired before the executive order was issued will not be affected.