| Title | The Present and Future Role of Geothermal in the Energy-Mix in Rural Iceland: A Case Study from NE-Iceland |
|---|---|
| Authors | Gunnlaug H. ÃSGEIRSDÓTTIR, Guðmundur H. SIGURÃARSON, Sigurður I. FRIÃLEIFSSON, Sunna GUÃMUNDSDÓTTIR, Bjarni GAUTASON |
| Year | 2020 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | geothermal resources, energy-mix, renewables, Paris, Iceland |
| Abstract | An overview of the role of geothermal in the energy mix of the North-East region of Iceland is presented. Geothermal energy outweighs the other renewable energy source (hydro-power) in the region. The main utilization sectors for geothermal energy in Northeast of Iceland is reviewed. Space heating is by far the most important one, accounting for 80% of the direct thermal-water usage. Other sectors of direct use are briefly described such as: electricity production, food production, snow melting, and leisure activities. The transportation sector is the main user of fossil fuels in the region. However, the energy transition to renewables in transportation is underway. The Northeast region of Iceland has enough energy to accept the challenge of this energy transition, with geothermal energy as a driving force. |