Jan 9 2010
Orkuveita Reykjavikur develops the Hellisheiði geothermal plant that is located in the Hengill active volcanic ridge, South West Iceland. The plant is developed to meet the growing demand for space heating and electricity in both domestic and industrial sectors. The geothermal plant is currently producing 213 megawatts of power. After the geothermal power plant is completed, it is estimated to generate 300 megawatts of electricity and 400 megawatts of thermal energy.
Hellisheiði Geothermal Plant
The Hellisheiði geothermal plant was identified as a potential geothermal resource from the data collected with boreholes drilled in the years, 2001 and 2002. The results from these boreholes confirmed the possibility for a geothermal plant in the area. In the year 2006, electricity was generated from two turbine units, each with a capacity of 40 to 45 megawatts. In 2007, a low pressure turbine with 30 megawatt capacity was put into use. Later in 2008, two 40 to 45 megawatt turbines were used along with steam from the Stóra-Skarðsmýrarfjall Mountain.
The Hellisheiði geothermal project will start the hot water plant operation in the year 2010. Orkuveita Reykjavikur has made a long term plan for the project, including addition of more turbines. The Hengill area’s geothermal activity is associated with three volcanic systems. In the past 11,000 years, the Hengill area has experienced three volcanic eruptions. The environmental assessment of the geothermal plant indicates that it will not have a permanent effect on the vegetation in the area.