| Title | Exploration and Exploitation of Low-Temperature Geothermal Fields for District Heating in Akureyri, North Iceland |
|---|---|
| Authors | Bjornsson, Axel |
| Year | 1981 |
| Conference | Geothermal Resources Council Transactions |
| Keywords | Direct Use; Exploration; Production; Iceland; Laugaland; Akureyri; Low Temperature; Basalts; Geology; Thermal Gradient; District Heating; Electrical Resistivity; Schlumberger Soundings |
| Abstract | The Tertiary basalt formations in the vicinity of the town of Akureyri in central northern Iceland are characterized by low permeability except for thin interlayer and narrow fissures along dykes. Although several thermal springs are found in the area, decades of geothermal exploration brought no success. A renewed geothermal exploration was started in 1975. Geological and geophysical reconnaissance survey revealed three geothermal prospects. Drilling of the Eyjafjordur area 12 km south of Akureyri, was successful and some 150 l/s of 80-96°C hot water is now produced from 6 wells. The water is low in dissolved solids an is used direct for cooking and space heating. About 85% of the town is now supplied with 70-80°C hot water from a district heating service The total cost savings for the people of Akureyri, by using geothermal instead of imported oil, are some $5 million per year. Research and drilling is continuing for further utilization of thermal water. |