Geothermal Energy Production in Iceland

Geothermal Energy Production in Iceland

• Geothermal energy harnesses heat from hot igneous rocks to generate electricity.
• Magma rising through fissures heats surrounding rock, increasing groundwater temperatures to 200°C.
• This creates underground reservoirs of hot water or steam.
• Wells are drilled to access these reservoirs, extracting the hot water/steam.
• The extracted water/steam is piped to the surface and used to power turbines, generating electricity.

Geothermal Energy in Iceland - Specifics

• Iceland's high volcanic activity (located on a constructive plate boundary) makes it ideal for geothermal energy.
• The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a key geological feature, with the Eurasian and North American plates pulling apart, creating a rift allowing magma to rise.
• Groundwater is heated by the hot igneous rock, becoming usable geothermal energy.
• Water can be pumped into wells if groundwater isn't readily available, increasing the yield of energy production.
• Geothermal energy in Iceland is used to heat homes, businesses, and greenhouses.
• The hot water is also used to heat footpaths in Reykjavik.
• 25% of Iceland's electricity is generated via geothermal power plants.

Geothermal Benefits and Applications

• Geothermal heating provides hot water and heating for over 90% of Iceland's houses.
• It supports the cultivation of vegetables like cabbage and salad crops like strawberries and tomatoes in greenhouses.
• Reducing dependence on fossil fuels via geothermal energy decreases greenhouse gas emissions.
• The Blue Lagoon is a famous tourist attraction using mineral-rich water from a geothermal power plant.
• Water from a geothermal plant is utilized for the Blue Lagoon at a comfortable temperature (40°C) for tourists.
• Geysers and geothermal springs are also tourist attractions in Iceland.