Remote Binary Power Development at Hveravellir, Central Iceland

Abstract

Hveravellir at Kjölur is a high temperature geothermal field and a protected natural reserve, located in the center of the Icelandic highlands, containing many warm springs and geysers or fumaroles emitting steam, water and gas and depositing colorful clay material. Throughout Icelandic history, Hveravellir has served as a temporary camp for travelers crossing the highlands in late summer time and it is possible to spend the night there either in a tent or in one of the small tourist cabins. A diesel generator has been used to power two cabins and a weather station located nearby. A decision has now been made to replace existing diesel facilities with a small geothermal power station. In this way, it will be possible to remove the high operational cost and pollution from the current electricity production and install sustainable 'green power' at this fascinating resort. A shallow research well was drilled and tested before designing a larger well for a binary system operating in island mode (off-grid). First geothermal power generation is predicted in 2016.