Completion of Krafla Geothermal Power Plant

Abstract

The preparation for the construction of the 60 MW Krafla Geothermal Power Plant started in 1974. Almost simultaneously volcanic activity started in the region and affected the chemistry of the geothermal fluid. This gave serious problems in the harnessing of the steam and the treatment of the geothermal fluid. Originally two 30 MW units were purchased but the installation of the second unit was postponed until further notice as a result of steam shortage. The volcanic activity ended in 1984 and since then the chemistry of the fluid has improved considerably. In 1996 Landsvirkjun (the National Power Company) decided to complete the installation of unit 2 and to drill for additional steam to reach fully rated power on the plant. The project has been successfully completed and the plant has been running on full load since 1998. The battle of completing the power plant and furnish it with the latest and most modern technology has lasted over a period of 25 years. Although Mother Nature resisted human intervention the battle has been won by Icelandic know-how. The future of the plant is promising and there are good prospects for further extension of the plant.