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Búrfell Hydropower Plant
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The Búrfell Hydropower Plant, located on the Þjórsá River in southern Iceland, was the country's first large-scale renewable energy project when it commenced operations in 1969. The station was primarily established to provide a reliable power supply to the Rio Tinto aluminum smelter in Straumsvík, marking a pivotal shift in the Icelandic economy toward heavy industry. The facility utilizes the river's drop between the Búrfell mountain and the valley, with the powerhouse carved deep into the rock to minimize its environmental and visual footprint. With an installed capacity of 270 megawatts following various upgrades, it remains a cornerstone of the Icelandic national power grid. The engineering feats involved include a sophisticated system of canals and weirs designed to manage the flow of the Þjórsá River, even during extreme winter freeze-up conditions. Today, Búrfell stands as a monument to Iceland's transition into a modern industrial nation powered by 100% renewable energy sources.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Þjóðveldisbærinn · Hjálparfoss
- Nearby: Landmannalaugar (39 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -3 | -2 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 2 | -2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 192 | 175 | 169 | 130 | 96 | 92 | 111 | 119 | 183 | 156 | 162 | 194 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Búrfell Hydropower Plant was the largest of its kind in Iceland when opened, using the Þjórsá River for electricity. It plays a central role in Iceland's energy supply and industrial provision.
Visiting
The plant itself is not open to the public, but the surrounding area and reservoir are accessible. There are viewing platforms from which the facility and river can be seen.
Where to view it
From the viewpoint along the Ring Road near the dam, there is an excellent view of the reservoir and outlet works. The nearby hill also has a good perspective.
Local products
The region is known for agricultural products like potatoes and grains grown on surrounding fields. Hydropower is a key product supplying electricity to local industry.
Active season
The plant operates year-round, with peak production in spring during snowmelt. Maintenance is typically carried out in summer.
Nearby
A plant visit can be combined with a hike in the nearby Þjórsárdalur valley. It features historical sites like the old Stöng church and waterfalls along the river.
Geography
Facts
- The first phase of the plant was commissioned in 1969.
- The total installed capacity is currently 270 megawatts.
- It harnesses the energy of Iceland's longest river, the Þjórsá.
- The powerhouse is situated in a cavern deep underground.
- It was the first Icelandic power station built for heavy industry.
- A specialized settling basin prevents glacial silt from damaging the turbines.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Búrfell Hydropower Plant (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Búrfell Power Station located?
It is located in the Þjórsárdalur valley in South Iceland along the Þjórsá river.
Why does the power station look so unusual?
The architecture is distinctive and meant to evoke the Icelandic basalt landscape.
Can you visit the plant?
Landsvirkjun often operates an information centre for visitors during the summer.
What attractions are nearby?
The Stöng Viking farm and the waterfalls Hjálparfoss and Háifoss are close by.
How much power does Búrfell produce?
It was for a long time Iceland's largest hydropower plant, primarily supplying industry.
Búrfell Hydropower Plant: where is it located?
Búrfell Hydropower Plant is located in Iceland.
Búrfell Hydropower Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Þjóðveldisbærinn, Hjálparfoss.
Búrfell Hydropower Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Búrfell Hydropower Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Búrfell Hydropower Plant, located on the Þjórsá River in southern Iceland, was the country's first large-scale renewable energy project when it commenced operations in 1969.
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