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Geothermal

Iceland is a pioneer in the use of geothermal energy for space heating. Generating electricity with geothermal energy has increased significantly in recent years. Geothermal power facilities currently generate 25% of the country's total electricity production.

During the course of the 20th century, Iceland went from what was one of Europe's poorest countries, dependent upon peat and imported coal for its energy, to a country with a high standard of living where practically all stationary energy is derived from renewable resources. In 2014, roughly 85% of primary energy use in Iceland came from indigenous renewable resources. Geothermal sources accounts for 66% of Iceland's primary energy use.

Legal Framework

The ownership of resources inside the ground is attached to a private land, while on public land resources inside the ground are the property of the State of Iceland, unless others can prove their right of ownership.

Direct Use of Geothermal Resources

Geothermal sources announct for 66% of Iceland's primary energy use. From the earliest of times, geothermal energy has been used for bathing and washing. Today, it is used directly in many ways. Here a few examples.

Sustainable Utilisation

Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that can be utilised in a sustainable or excessive manner. Excessive production from a geothermal field can only be maintained for a relatively short time, and can indicate overinvestment in wells and power plant equipment.

Electricity Generation

Generating electricity with goethermal energy has increased significantly in recent years. As a result of a rapid expansioin in Iceland's energy intensive industry, the demand for electricity has increased considerably.