Geothermal Energy Lessons from Iceland by Benjamin D. Smith

In July, I began graduate studies at Reykjavik University in Iceland where I am enrolled in their MSc Sustainable Energy program. While this is a very broad subject, my focus will be on geothermal energy.

Why sustainable energy? And why geothermal? 

A sustainable system will hypothetically last indefinitely or at least present minimal adverse impacts to the environment or society. As we seek to satisfy our future energy needs, we need to ensure that such systems are in place. As our demand for energy grows and the supply or use of fossil fuels dwindles, we will need to look to other sources. Considering the environmental impacts and carbon emissions associated with fossil fuels, sustainable energy systems are important. 

Geothermal energy caught my attention for various reasons. First, with a degree in geology, I think the technology behind it is truly fascinating. Second, geothermal presents global energy opportunities like low temperature heating and cooling for residential and commercial use. Third, geothermal has significant international potential as a steady source of baseload electricity.

Aluminum smelting is one of the largest industries in Iceland. It is a very energy intensive process that is powered from renewable energy sources, consuming 80% of the nation’s energy production. While geothermal energy production is suited to specific geographical locations and there is much room for improving geothermal energy system technology, Iceland has clearly demonstrated its potential for electricity production with 30% of their power coming from geothermal sources. We have not seen the full international potential of geothermal energy. 

An important concept taught here is the zero-waste concept. This applies to geothermal energy as well as all sustainable systems. Geothermal power plants are able to use much, but not all, of the heat within hot geothermal water for electricity production. After the water is too cool to power turbines, the residual hot water is then used for various other heating applications. Iceland is subject to very cold winters, it is “ICEland” after-all, and around 99% of Iceland residents use geothermally heated water to keep themselves warm. I recently visited a company that uses geothermal water to grow algae and the hot residual water creates perfect growing conditions for very little cost. The largest industries that use geothermal water are fisheries and agriculture where the heat is used to keep fish in a suitable environment, to dry the fish, and in green houses to grow plants. Did you know that Iceland uses geothermal energy to grow bananas and grapes? Even Iceland’s world-famous Blue Lagoon spa relies upon residual geothermal water. It is one of Iceland’s top tourist destinations, where tourism is the #1 industry. With geothermal energy, there is much more potential than just the production of electricity. 

Ben Smith ice climbing in ICEland

I am excited to pursue these studies and discover better ways to prepare for our global future. I plan to post monthly where I will explain how different systems work, discuss various issues associated with geothermal energy, and share other interesting things that I learn on this exciting path. 

Kær kveðja/Kind Regards

Ben Smith