Country’s Gas Bill Increased 45% in 2005

COSTA Rica’s gas bill in 2005 reached an estimated $1.02 billion, a 45.2% increase over 2004, when the country spent $700 million.

A representative of the National Oil Refinery (RECOPE) explained that the figure for 2005 corresponds with preliminary estimates; exact figures for the close of the year are still not available.

According to RECOPE, fuel imports last year reached 16.6 million barrels costing approximately $1 billion dollars, compared to 15.7 million barrels totaling $700 million in 2004.

The country’s main fuel provider is Venezuela, representing 37.4% of the total.