The Geothermal Installations at Svartsengi and Reykjanes Centre for Research and Development, Training and Educating Tourism

Abstract

An important integral part of the geothermal power plants of HS Orka hf are two exhibitions for educating students and visitors about geothermal energy and energy related issues. Every year thousands of visitors and students visit the power plants. The operation of the power plants has led to the development of special equipments and special working procedures. Parallel to the operation comprehensive research and development of construction materials and working procedures has been carried out. The geothermal installations are looked at as a research and development platform for the company as well as its components suppliers, research institutions and schools. The paper describes the educative exhibitions and how they support the Blue Lagoon and the tourist industry in Iceland. The research and development activity is outlined and the most important tools and working procedures developed are counted for.