A Landmark Moment: Orca is Launched
On September 8, 2021, Orca officially began operations, marking a new era in carbon dioxide removal. As the largest operational DAC+S plant on Earth, its mission is simple yet revolutionary: capture CO₂ directly from the atmosphere and lock it safely underground, permanently removing it from the carbon cycle.
This milestone positioned Iceland—and the world—at the forefront of scalable carbon removal technologies.
Innovative Design for Improved Capture Capacity
Orca’s success is rooted in its upgraded technology design. The facility comprises eight high-efficiency collector containers, each capable of capturing up to 500 tonnes of CO₂ per year. Together, they deliver a combined annual removal capacity of 4,000 tonnes—a significant first step toward global climate targets.
These containers are arranged around a central process hall, which houses the facility’s electrical and processing systems. This setup allows operators to control the entire plant remotely, showcasing how digitalization and automation are transforming climate-tech infrastructure.
Powered by Geothermal Energy
One of Orca’s greatest strengths is its integration with the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant, which provides both heat and electricity needed for the DAC process. This ensures that carbon removal is powered by 100% renewable, low-carbon energy, maximizing climate benefits while reducing the plant’s footprint.
By pairing DAC with geothermal energy, Iceland has demonstrated a model that can be replicated in other regions with abundant renewable resources.
Designed to Blend Into Nature
Despite its advanced technology, Orca’s physical presence is intentionally understated. The design incorporates earthy colours and natural materials to ensure the facility integrates smoothly into Iceland’s breathtaking volcanic landscape. This reflects a commitment not only to environmental sustainability, but also to respecting the natural beauty that surrounds the site.
A Glimpse Into the Future of Climate Action
The installation of the first four collectors marked the beginning of a new journey—a proof that large-scale carbon removal is not just theoretical, but achievable. Orca is more than a plant; it is a prototype for climate resilience, creating a path for future DAC facilities across the globe.
As the world seeks urgent solutions to cut emissions and remove historic carbon, Orca stands as a symbol of innovation, ambition, and hope.
A Landmark Moment: Orca is Launched
On September 8, 2021, Orca officially began operations, marking a new era in carbon dioxide removal. As the largest operational DAC+S plant on Earth, its mission is simple yet revolutionary: capture CO₂ directly from the atmosphere and lock it safely underground, permanently removing it from the carbon cycle.
This milestone positioned Iceland—and the world—at the forefront of scalable carbon removal technologies.
Innovative Design for Improved Capture Capacity
Orca’s success is rooted in its upgraded technology design. The facility comprises eight high-efficiency collector containers, each capable of capturing up to 500 tonnes of CO₂ per year. Together, they deliver a combined annual removal capacity of 4,000 tonnes—a significant first step toward global climate targets.
These containers are arranged around a central process hall, which houses the facility’s electrical and processing systems. This setup allows operators to control the entire plant remotely, showcasing how digitalization and automation are transforming climate-tech infrastructure.
Powered by Geothermal Energy
One of Orca’s greatest strengths is its integration with the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant, which provides both heat and electricity needed for the DAC process. This ensures that carbon removal is powered by 100% renewable, low-carbon energy, maximizing climate benefits while reducing the plant’s footprint.
By pairing DAC with geothermal energy, Iceland has demonstrated a model that can be replicated in other regions with abundant renewable resources.
Designed to Blend Into Nature
Despite its advanced technology, Orca’s physical presence is intentionally understated. The design incorporates earthy colours and natural materials to ensure the facility integrates smoothly into Iceland’s breathtaking volcanic landscape. This reflects a commitment not only to environmental sustainability, but also to respecting the natural beauty that surrounds the site.
A Glimpse Into the Future of Climate Action
The installation of the first four collectors marked the beginning of a new journey—a proof that large-scale carbon removal is not just theoretical, but achievable. Orca is more than a plant; it is a prototype for climate resilience, creating a path for future DAC facilities across the globe.
Related: Driving the UK Toward Net Zero: Chris Sladen on Geothermal’s Untapped Potential
As the world seeks urgent solutions to cut emissions and remove historic carbon, Orca stands as a symbol of innovation, ambition, and hope.
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