Utilisation of geothermal energy in Iceland

The present and future uses of geothermal energy in Iceland are reviewed. The classification of geothermal areas is mentioned and their potential estimated. High temperature areas may be able to sustain the production of 20 MW/km² of electricity for at least 50 years. The potential of the 17 high temperature areas is almost 6000 MW, which is substantially greater than that of the 250 low temperature areas. However, practically all the hot water used for district heating and greenhouse farming is supplied by low temperature areas. About half the population of Iceland enjoys geothermal district heating at the cost of 35% that of comparable fuel oil heating. Utilisation of high temperature areas is relatively recent. Saturated steam from these areas is used for industrial purpose and a 60 MW geothermal power plant is being constructed.