Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant

About Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant

Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant sits on the Hellisheiðarvirkjun plateau just off Route 1 between Reykjavík and Hveragerði. Operated by ON Power, it is one of the largest geothermal plants in the world, producing both electricity and hot water for Reykjavík and surrounding communities. The Geothermal Exhibition at the plant allows visitors to see the inner workings of Iceland's energy infrastructure and learn how geothermal heat is captured, processed, and distributed. The exhibition also covers CarbFix — an innovative carbon capture project at the site that dissolves CO₂ in water and injects it underground, where it mineralises into rock within two years. The plant is located close to the popular Reykjadalur hot river trail and makes a natural stop for travelers driving the ring road between Reykjavík and South Iceland.

📖 Story

Iceland heats nearly 90% of its homes using geothermal energy, and Hellisheiði is at the heart of that system. The plant harnesses steam from the Hengill volcanic system, one of the most thermally active areas in the country. A visitor exhibition at the plant explains not only the technology but also Iceland's ongoing efforts to capture and store CO₂ back underground — a project that could help other countries reduce emissions.

Key Facts