  |
 |
 |
|
Within 20 years Iceland plans to eliminate oil imports altogether by switching to a hydrogen-based economy. Such an ambitious goal is a stretch, acknowledges Bjarni Bjarnason, executive vice-president of Icelandic New Energy, an organization combining government and industry efforts. “But if it is not achievable in Iceland, then it is not achievable anywhere.” As the most active volcanic spot on the earth’s surface, Iceland starts out with an advantage. Plumes of magna rise relatively close to the surface under the island, making geothermal energy production economically attractive.
Diagram shows Icelandic geothermal power station takes advantage of heat from magna chamber relatively close to the surface. Furthermore, Iceland has mountainous terrain and plenty of rainfall so hydroelectric energy is a major source of power.
Island’s stark, rugged landscape presents excellent opportunities for hydroelectric as well as geothermal energy generation. With so much electrical energy available from renewable sources, Icelandic authorities believe hydrogen production through electrolysis of water is a feasible and logical means of achieving the country’s ‘oil-free’ goal. Beyond electrolysis, two other hydrogen sources are being considered; purifying the hydrogen gas emitted from geothermal boreholes and producing H2 from hydrogen sulfide. Taken together, more than 1600 tons of hydrogen would available from these two sources.
Krafla geothermal power station is one of several located in Iceland’s hot spots and uses steam to drive generators. Currently, geothermal accounts for the largest proportion (more than 30 percent) of Iceland’s energy consumption, with hydropower, oil and a very small amount of coal making up the balance. In terms of space heating in homes and businesses, hot water piped from wells provides close to 90 percent of the country’s needs. There are multiple benefits for the Icelandic population, not least being the improved environment; 70 years ago the capital city Reykjavik was regularly enveloped in coal fire smog, now the air is crystal clear.
Hot water pipeline runs for 17 kms from geothermal plant to Reykjavik. Water provides most of city’s space heating needs. |
|
