Iceland's geothermal power plant - model for sustainable energy

Iceland has long been a pioneer in renewable energy, particularly with its groundbreaking work in geothermal power.  

Fifty years ago, Iceland made significant strides in energy innovation by tapping into geothermal power, particularly through the Krafla Geothermal Power Plant. This marked a pivotal moment in Iceland's energy sector and set a precedent for sustainable energy development worldwide, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.  

Currently, the United States is exploring similar geothermal potential at Yellowstone National Park. This article delves into the history of the Krafla Geothermal Station, its construction, and its efficiency, drawing parallels to what America is now pursuing.   The Krafla Geothermal Station, located east of Lake Mývatn, was the first power plant of its kind, commencing operations in 1978.

This followed approximately four years of exploration beginning in 1974, which involved well-drilling activities that revealed Iceland's rich geothermal resources beneath its icy landscape.   Initially providing 7MW of energy to the national grid, Krafla has since boosted its electrical output to 60MW.

Notable advancements in drilling techniques at Krafla, such as directional drilling, have expedited the process while also making it more environmentally friendly, establishing Krafla as a global benchmark in geothermal energy development. When Iceland began its journey into geothermal energy, it implemented several innovative measures, including the construction of high-temperature boreholes at Krafla to optimize power generation while minimizing ecological impact. 

This approach has positioned Krafla at the forefront of geothermal technology and has influenced similar projects around the globe, including those at Yellowstone. Since 2022, the practice of reinjecting runoff water has been adopted, ensuring the sustainability of the geothermal system by providing a continuous energy source that does not deplete resources.

By Naila Huseynova