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Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station
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The Hellisheiði Power Station is the largest geothermal power plant in Iceland and one of the largest of its kind in the world. Located on the Hengill volcanic mass in southwest Iceland, it is operated by ON Power and serves as a vital energy source for the country. The plant harnesses high-pressure steam from geothermal wells to generate electricity and provides hot water for the district heating system of the greater Reykjavík area. It is internationally recognized for hosting the Carbfix project, a groundbreaking carbon capture and storage technology that turns carbon dioxide into stone within basaltic rock formations. The facility includes a professional Geothermal Exhibition where visitors can learn about sustainable energy production and Iceland's unique plate tectonics. Construction began in 2006, and the plant has since been expanded through multiple phases to reach its current capacity. Surrounded by steaming fumaroles and expansive lava fields, Hellisheiði stands as a symbol of Iceland's leadership in renewable energy innovation.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Geothermal Energy Exhibition · Lambafell
- Nearby: Hveragerði (11 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 | -1 | -1 | 0 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 4 | 1 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 179 | 162 | 161 | 123 | 96 | 86 | 105 | 121 | 184 | 149 | 149 | 182 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station is one of the world's largest geothermal plants, providing electricity and hot water to the capital region. Its location on the Hengill volcano showcases the harnessing of volcanic heat for sustainable energy.
Visiting
The power station itself is not open for unguided tours, but there is typically an information centre nearby where visitors can learn about geothermal processes. External views of the facility are possible from the roadside.
Where to view it
A good viewpoint is from the road leading to the plant, where the steam vents and buildings are clearly visible. Hiking trails on the Hengill volcano also provide elevated perspectives of the entire geothermal field.
Local products
While the plant produces energy, nearby towns sell local crafts, geothermal skincare products, and volcanic rock souvenirs. The region is also known for lamb and dairy products from farms using geothermal heating.
Active season
Geothermal plants operate year-round, but summer sees more visitors and educational activities at the information centre. The surrounding highland area is most accessible from June to September.
Nearby
Combine a visit with the nearby Hengill hiking area, which features hot springs and volcanic landscapes. Also worthwhile is a trip to the town of Hveragerði, known for its greenhouses and flower gardens.
Geography
Facts
- The station has an installed electrical capacity of approximately 303 megawatts (MW).
- The plant also produces around 400 megawatts of thermal energy for heating.
- The first phase of the power station's operation began in 2006.
- The Carbfix process mineralizes CO2 into solid rock within two years.
- More than 30 geothermal wells supply steam from depths of up to 3,000 meters.
- The site is located approximately 25 kilometers east of Reykjavík.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Hellisheiði Power Station?
Yes, there is a Geothermal Exhibition open daily for visitors.
How far is it from Reykjavík?
It is located about a 20 to 30-minute drive east of Reykjavík along the Ring Road.
What is shown in the exhibition?
The use of geothermal energy for electricity and hot water, plus modern CO2 storage technologies.
Is there a café on-site?
Yes, the visitor centre has a small café offering snacks and drinks.
Is this the largest power station in Iceland?
It is one of the largest geothermal power plants in the world and the largest in Iceland.
Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station: where is it located?
Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station is located in Iceland.
Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station: what is there to see?
Highlights include Geothermal Energy Exhibition, Lambafell.
Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station: why is it worth visiting?
The Hellisheiði Power Station is the largest geothermal power plant in Iceland and one of the largest of its kind in the world.
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Hveragerði
Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.
Hveragerði
Hveragerði is famous for its high geothermal activity, located about 45 km east of Reykjavík.
