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Reykjanes Power Plant
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Industrial site
The Reykjanes Geothermal Power Plant is a sophisticated facility located at the southwestern tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, situated directly on the plate boundary of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Commissioned in 2006, the plant harnesses extremely high-temperature steam from the Reykjanes geothermal field to generate electricity for the national grid. The facility showcases Iceland's technological leadership in renewable energy, with an installed capacity of approximately 100 megawatts. A unique technical feature is the use of seawater for cooling purposes, a necessity due to the geothermal reservoir's interaction with the surrounding ocean. Beyond its industrial output, the plant serves as a significant research hub for earth sciences and geothermal engineering. In addition to its economic role, the site is a key destination for educational tourism through the 'Power Plant Earth' visitor center.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Reykjanesviti · Powerplant Exhibition · Reykjanestá
- Nearby: Grindavík (12 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 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 154 | 136 | 138 | 106 | 83 | 72 | 85 | 109 | 161 | 131 | 137 | 154 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Reykjanes Power Plant uses geothermal steam for electricity generation, located in southwest Iceland in a geologically active zone. It is a key part of Iceland's energy infrastructure.
Visiting
The power plant itself is not open to the public, but the site can be viewed from the nearby road. Typically, steam plumes and buildings are clearly visible.
Where to view it
An optimal viewpoint is Road 425 passing by the plant, offering views of the geothermal facilities and rugged coastline. The Blue Lagoon parking lot also provides a good perspective.
Local products
No direct products from the plant, but visitors can experience geothermal energy products like hot water at the Blue Lagoon. Local souvenirs often relate to geothermal themes.
Active season
The power plant operates continuously year-round. Most activity occurs around summer maintenance work, with steam being most visible.
Nearby
Combine the visit with the Blue Lagoon, just minutes away. Also visit the Reykjanesviti lighthouse and the Gunnuhver volcanic area.
Geography
Facts
- The power plant utilizes steam reaching temperatures of up to 300 degrees Celsius.
- Two 50 MW Mitsubishi turbines are employed within the facility.
- Steam is sourced from boreholes reaching depths of up to 2,700 meters.
- The Reykjanes field is one of Iceland's most active thermal areas, rich in solfataras.
- The plant generates approximately 850 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually.
- The facility is operated by the energy company HS Orka hf.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Reykjanes Power Plant (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the Reykjanes power plant located?
Located at the southwest tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, near the Reykjanesvíti lighthouse.
What makes this power plant unique?
It uses nearly 300°C steam from deep underground to generate electricity.
Is there an information center there?
The 'Power Plant Earth' exhibition explains how energy is generated (check hours).
Can you enter the power plant building?
Access is generally only allowed to the visitor area and the exhibition.
What can you see in the surroundings?
The Gunnuhver geothermal area with its hot springs is right next door.
Reykjanes Power Plant: where is it located?
Reykjanes Power Plant is located in Iceland.
Reykjanes Power Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Reykjanesviti, Powerplant Exhibition, Reykjanestá.
Reykjanes Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Reykjanes Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Reykjanes Geothermal Power Plant is a sophisticated facility located at the southwestern tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, situated directly on the plate boundary of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
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Hafnarfjörður
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Hafnarfjörður
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Keflavík
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Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.
Garðabær
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Selfoss
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Akranes
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Seltjarnarnes
Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.
Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar is a town on Heimaey island in the archipelago of the same name off Iceland's south coast.
Grindavík
Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)
Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters.
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.
