Deep Geothermal Drilling on the Reykjanes Ridge Opportunity for International Collaboration

Abstract

The Icelandic geothermal community is planning to join in a deep geothermal drilling research project on the Reykjanes peninsula - the landward extension of the Reykjanes-Ridge. The principal aim is to bring supercritical hydrous fluid (400- 600?C) up to the surface under high pressure, through a 4 km deep drillhole, into a research pilot plant where the thermal energy of the fluid is separated and the chemicals extracted. The consortium for this project will consist of Hitaveita Sudurnesja, Orkuveita Reykjavikur, Landsvirkjun, Federation of Icelandic Energy and Water Works, Iceland Drilling Company Ltd., Orkustofnun, University of Iceland and leading consulting engineering companies in Iceland. Leading equipment suppliers have already shown interest in the project. International participation is welcomed to this challenging and advanced project, which has a high potential payoff.