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Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant
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Industrial site
The Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant, officially known as the Fljótsdalur Power Station, is the largest hydroelectric project in Iceland and a major pillar of the nation's industrial infrastructure. Located in the eastern highlands, it harnesses the power of the Jökulsá á Dal and Jökulsá í Fljótsdal rivers, which are impounded by the massive Hálslón Reservoir. The main dam, Kárahnjúkastífla, stands 193 meters high, making it one of the tallest concrete-faced rock-fill dams in Europe. The electricity generated is transmitted via high-voltage lines primarily to power the Alcoa Fjarðaál aluminum smelter in Reyðarfjörður. The project was subject to significant international debate and environmental protests due to its impact on the pristine highland wilderness and local biodiversity. Despite the controversy, it has been a catalyst for economic growth in East Iceland, providing stability and employment to the region. The power house itself is situated deep underground, connected by a 73-kilometer network of water tunnels.
- Location: Iceland
- Nearby: Egilsstaðir (75 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 | -7 | -7 | -6 | -4 | -1 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 1 | -2 | -5 | -7 |
| Rain mm | 79 | 66 | 71 | 63 | 67 | 57 | 83 | 80 | 90 | 95 | 95 | 90 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant is the largest industrial project in Iceland's history, powering the aluminium smelter in Reyðarfjörður. It dams the rivers Jökulsá á Brú and Jökulsá í Fljótsdal to generate electricity for heavy industry.
Visiting
The plant and dam are typically not open to the public, being a security zone. However, from the nearby highland road, the massive dam and waterfalls can be admired.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the highland road F910, which passes directly by the dam and has a wide-open view of the flooded valley. From the nearby mountain ridge, one also has a great perspective on the entire facility.
Local products
In the eastern fjords like Reyðarfjörður, local fish catches are offered, and dried fish (Harðfiskur) can be purchased. The region is also known for its handmade ceramics and wool from local sheep farming.
Active season
The hydropower plant operates year-round, but the snowmelt in spring and early summer produces peak electricity generation. The highland roads are only accessible in summer, making this the best travel time.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a drive through the wild eastern fjords to Reyðarfjörður to see the aluminium smelter from outside. The open-air museum in Eskifjörður and the memorable landscape of Snæfellsnes are also worthwhile destinations.
Geography
Facts
- The plant has a maximum installed capacity of 690 megawatts (MW).
- The Kárahnjúkastífla dam is 193 meters high and 730 meters long.
- The Hálslón Reservoir covers an area of about 57 square kilometers.
- The project officially commenced operations in the year 2007.
- The total length of the underground water tunnels is 73 kilometers.
- The water drop from the reservoir to the turbines is approximately 600 meters.
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Sights in the town Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant?
It is Iceland's largest hydropower plant, featuring a massive dam in the highlands.
Can you visit the dam?
You can drive across the top of the main dam and see its immense proportions.
What is the electricity used for?
It powers almost exclusively the Fjardaál aluminium smelter in Reyðarfjörður.
How do you reach Kárahnjúkar?
A paved road leads from Egilsstaðir into the highlands directly to the dam.
When is the best time to visit?
Only in summer, as the highland roads are impassable in winter.
Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant: where is it located?
Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant is located in Iceland.
Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant, officially known as the Fljótsdalur Power Station, is the largest hydroelectric project in Iceland and a major pillar of the nation's industrial infrastructure.
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