Empowering energy Iceland

Is Iceland fully powered by renewables?

An interview of Hörður Arnarson, CEO of Landsvirkjun. Mr. Arnarson, Iceland is almost completely powered by renewables but still has a few milestones left in its energy transition. Can you please tell us about the current situation from your perspective and the path forward with regards to Iceland’s energy use?

What is the Iceland School of energy?

We are thrilled that you are interested in the Iceland School of Energy! Our institution is dedicated to providing high-quality education and research opportunities in the fields of energy, sustainability, and renewable resources.

Where would energy come from in Iceland?

Partly it would come from Iceland’s current robust energy system, with its minimal carbon footprint and small ecological footprint. However, the majority would likely come from new energy generation from both Iceland’s traditional hydro and geothermal resources as well as new large scale wind parks.

How much electricity does Iceland use?

In 2015, the total electricity consumption in Iceland was 18,798 GWh. Renewable energy provided almost 100% of production, with 75% coming from hydropower and 24% from geothermal power. Only two islands, Grímsey and Flatey, are not connected to the national grid and so rely primarily on diesel generators for electricity.

Will geothermal and hydro power make sense for energy transition in Iceland?

Just as geothermal and hydro power generation made sense for energy transition in Iceland, local conditions elsewhere will determine which renewable resources are the most efficient and how they will be best exploited. Because every country is unique, each transition will be different.

Is Iceland a good place for hydro power?

Iceland is also starting to use "cold" areas away from the steam fields to produce warm water for space heating. There is a big potential for hydro power, as rivers, especial glacial ones, fall from the high areas and provide big changes in elevation over small distances, due to the mountainous landscape.