Last Updated:	July 2, 2009
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Introduction

Costa Rica has developed mandatory minimum energy efficiency standards and labeling requirements for a list of electric products, although IT and electronics equipment has yet to be included.  A comprehensive 1994 Law on the Rational Use of Energy ("URE Law") and its implementing regulation (“URE Regulation”) together provide a national system of performance standards and labeling for the following products manufactured/assembled in or imported into Costa Rica: air conditioners, lamp ballasts, fluorescent lamps, refrigerators, freezers, stoves, ovens, electric water tank heaters, motor vehicles under four tons, and electric motors over 1 kilowatt (KW).

Costa Rica’s energy efficiency program is run by the Energy Sector Directorate (Dirección Sectorial de Energía or “DSE”), a branch of the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Tourism (MINAET).  A multi-agency National Energy Conservation Commission (CONACE) made up of representatives from DSE, public utilities, and others plays more of a policy role.  Inspections of equipment and enforcement can be handled by agents of the DSE and the Ministry of Industry, Economy and Commerce (MEIC).