Laxárstöð

Background

History & Background

The Laxárstöð complex comprises three distinct hydroelectric power stations, each developed at different times to harness the power of the Laxá River. Laxárstöð I is the oldest of the three, utilizing the upper section of the river's fall near Brúar. Water is first diverted from a dam at the top of the canyons, flowing through underground tunnels and then an open channel for approximately 670 meters before reaching the station house. It houses two turbine units, with the first commissioned in 1939 and the second in 1944. Laxárstöð II was developed to utilize the lower part of the river's fall, also near Brúa. The river is dammed about 300 meters downstream from Laxárstöð I. From this point, water is channeled through plastic pipes to an equalization tower, and then via a steel pipe to its station house, covering a total distance of about 380 meters. This station, featuring a single turbine unit, commenced operations in 1953. Laxárstöð III is the youngest of the power stations, inaugurated in 1973. Its distinctive vaulted building was initially designed to accommodate two 25 MW hydro-turbines, based on plans for a 56-meter-high dam further upstream in the canyon, which would have resulted in a total fall height of 83 meters. However, these ambitious plans faced strong opposition from the local community, the Þingeyingar. As a result of these protests, Laxárstöð III was ultimately built with only one turbine instead of two, and further development plans for the area were shelved, showcasing a significant moment of local environmental advocacy.

Laxárstöð is not just a single site, but a complex of three hydroelectric power stations – Laxárstöð I, II, and III – strategically built along the Laxá River in Aðaldalur, North Iceland. This impressive engineering marvel harnesses the river's significant flow to generate electricity, playing a crucial role in Iceland's energy supply. The visible power station building, with its distinctive arched roof and large multi-paned windows, stands as a modern structure harmoniously integrated into the wild Icelandic landscape. Surrounded by rugged, moss-covered volcanic terrain and the powerful, churning river, the site offers a unique blend of industrial might and raw natural beauty. Visitors can observe the exterior of these facilities and appreciate the ingenuity required to build such infrastructure in challenging environments. The history of Laxárstöð III, in particular, highlights the local community's voice in balancing development with environmental preservation, making this a site of historical and cultural interest beyond its technical function. A visit here provides insight into Iceland's sustainable energy practices and the enduring power of its natural resources.