Hellisheidi Geothermal Plant
In construction is a 300 MWe and 400 MWth geothermal power plant in Hellisheidi, Iceland. The new geothermal plant is to provide Reykjavik with electricity and space heating as the demand is increasing, especially industrial demand. The production will be increased incrementally from 2006 until 2009.
The first phase, with electrical output of 90 MWe, was completed in October 2006. 41 wells have already been drilled in the Hellisheidi area for exploration and harnessing of the available geothermal energy. A 30 MWe low-pressure turbine went into operation in 2007 and 2 x 45 MWe turbines will be added in 2008 followed by another 90 MW in 2009. Future plans estimate an electrical generation of 300 MWe and the production of hot water of 400 MWth for Reykjavik’s district heating system by the year 2009, making the Hellisheidi plant the largest geothermal CHP (Combined Heat & Power) plant in Iceland. The production of hot water (400 MWth) for Reykjavik's district heating system is scheduled to start in 2009. The produced amount of hot water is said to suffice the system until 2020. The plant owner is Reykjavik Energy.
The design of the engine hall and other facilities is aimed at providing flexibility. The idea is that the central building contain the control rooms and shared equipment for the whole plant. The added production facilities for electricity and district heating will be located adjacent to the main facility on each side. All geothermal fluids are reinjected back into the reservoir to avoid any impact on the surrounding area. Hiking- and horsetrails in the area have been improved as well as mapping of the area for easy access of tourists
Click on the link to see a computer generated video of the Hellisheidi power plant geothermal site and steam transmission pipe system (video will take a moment to upload).
Click on the link see a computer generated video of the Hellisheidi Geothermal Power Plant boreholes (video will take a moment to upload).
PM Mr. Geir H. Haarde, speaking at the inauguration ceremony Oct. 2006.