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Krafla Power Station
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Industrial site
The Krafla Power Station in Northeast Iceland is a prominent symbol of harnessing geothermal energy under extreme geological challenges. Construction began in the 1970s but was severely hampered by the 'Krafla Fires' (1975-1984), a series of volcanic eruptions and seismic events that occurred right next to the site. Despite the constant threat of lava flows destroying the facility, the project persevered, and the plant began operations in 1977. Krafla taps into superheated steam from deep wells near the Krafla caldera to drive two powerful turbines. The station represents a milestone in Icelandic engineering and now serves as a major center for high-temperature geothermal research. One of the most significant initiatives at the site is the Iceland Deep Drilling Project (IDDP), which successfully drilled into the vicinity of liquid magma to explore unprecedented energy potential. Fully integrated into the national grid, the plant is a critical energy provider for Northern Iceland. Its futuristic architecture, set against a stark volcanic backdrop, also makes it a popular destination for visitors interested in sustainable technology.
- Location: Iceland
- Nearby: Mývatn Nature Baths (9 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 | -6 | -6 | -5 | -3 | 1 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 3 | -1 | -4 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 83 | 68 | 77 | 68 | 71 | 58 | 78 | 83 | 106 | 105 | 101 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Krafla Power Station utilizes geothermal energy from an active volcanic system in northern Iceland, serving as a key pillar of energy supply in the region. It provides electricity and heat to surrounding communities and industry.
Visiting
The power station is typically not open to the public, but the nearby Krafla Visitor Centre provides insights into geothermal energy. From surrounding hiking trails, the steam plumes of the boreholes are visible.
Where to view it
An excellent viewpoint is the Víti crater on the Krafla volcano, from which the entire power station and the steaming volcanic area can be seen. The road to the Leirhnjúkur lava field also provides grand views of the facility.
Local products
In the nearby town of Húsavík, local marine specialties such as whale meat and smoked fish are available. The bluish clay (diatomaceous earth) from the region's lakes is also used in cosmetics.
Active season
The geothermal plant operates year-round, but the area is most lively in summer when the highland roads are open. The hot springs and steam fields are especially impressive in cooler weather.
Nearby
Combine the visit with exploration of the Krafla volcano and the Leirhnjúkur lava field. A detour to Lake Mývatn with its unique craters and hot springs is also highly recommended.
Geography
Facts
- Krafla Power Station officially entered service in 1977.
- The plant has a total installed electrical capacity of 60 megawatts (MW).
- Construction was interrupted by 9 separate volcanic eruptions in the area.
- In 2009, the IDDP project struck magma at a depth of just 2.1 kilometers.
- The turbines are powered by geothermal steam exceeding 200 degrees Celsius.
- Krafla was Iceland's first large-scale industrial geothermal power project.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Krafla Power Station (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Krafla Power Station located?
In Northern Iceland, near Lake Mývatn and the Krafla volcano.
Is there a visitor centre at Krafla?
Yes, there is an information centre about geothermal energy during the summer.
Can you drive up to the power station?
Yes, a paved road leads past the plant directly to the Viti crater.
What is unique about the Krafla region?
It is one of Iceland's most geologically active zones, with many steam vents and lava fields.
Has the power station ever been threatened by lava?
During the Krafla Fires (1975-1984), lava flowed dangerously close to the plant.
Krafla Power Station: where is it located?
Krafla Power Station is located in Iceland.
Krafla Power Station: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Krafla Power Station: why is it worth visiting?
The Krafla Power Station in Northeast Iceland is a prominent symbol of harnessing geothermal energy under extreme geological challenges.
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