The Baer Thermal Area in Western Iceland: Exploration and Exploitation

Abstract

The hot springs in the Baer thermal area are distributed in 4 groups on a 2 km long line striking N10°W. Natural discharge is 8 l/s and maximum temperature 94°C. Evidence indicates that the linearity originates form a fracture. The fracture is intersected by NE-SW trending dykes and faults which coincide with the groups of hot springs. The fracture opens the way up for fluid flowing along the dykes and faults. Nine wells have been drilled in the area which two are productive and yield 60 l/s of 96°C hot water by downhole pumping This may be increased to 110 l/s with further drilling and a drawdown of the water level to 110 m depth. The water will be used for a district heating system in the small towns of Borgarnes and Akranes (6500 inhabitants together). The hot water will be transported 60 km in an insulated pipeline which will be completed in late 1981.