Iceland Doubles Down on the Future: 600 Million ISK Unlocked for Next-Generation Geothermal Breakthroughs
The Icelandic government has taken a major step forward in advancing its world-leading geothermal sector.
On March 19, 2026, the Loftslags- og orkusjóður (Climate and Energy Fund) announced the allocation of 600 million Icelandic krónur(approximately USD 4.3-4.5 million, depending on exchange rates) to support 11 innovative projects focused on innovation, technology development, and expanded utilization of geothermal resources.
This funding round builds directly on the "Jarðhiti jafnar leikinn" (Geothermal Levels the Playing Field) initiative launched in late 2025, which initially committed around 1 billion ISK for exploration and utilization of geothermal energy across Iceland, particularly in underserved areas for district heating. The latest grants shift emphasis toward next-generation technologies, value creation beyond basic heating, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in geothermal extraction.
Minister of Environment, Energy, and Climate Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson described this as part of the largest state investment in geothermal matters this century during the government's first year. He highlighted the progression from initial support for research drilling and heat pump adoption—from Patreksfjörður and Bolungarvík in the west to Vestmannaeyjar and Vík in the south—to now targeting deeper, hotter resources and broader economic benefits.
The Flagship Project: IDDP-3 Deep Drilling at Nesjavellir
The largest single grant—nearly 310 million ISK goes to the IDDP-3 project at Nesjavellir, a collaborative effort involving Orkuveita Reykjavíkur (Reykjavík Energy), Landsvirkjun, HS Orka, and government entities.
The Iceland Deep Drilling Project (IDDP) series has long aimed to access supercritical or superhot geothermal fluids (typically >450°C, approaching 600°C in ideal conditions) at drillable depths of 4-5 km. Earlier phases included IDDP-1 at Krafla (terminated early due to magma encounter but still productive) and IDDP-2 at Reykjanes (sampling roots of mid-ocean ridge-like systems).
IDDP-3 targets the Hengill volcanic area, specifically near the historic Nesjavellir well NJ-11, which in 1985 unexpectedly hit temperatures over 380°C at just ~2.2 km—indicating supercritical potential but requiring shutdown for safety. Recent planning, accelerated by a 2025 cooperation agreement, positions drilling to start in 2026.
The goal: Drill deeper into hotter zones to harness fluids with much higher enthalpy. Success could multiply the power output per borehole by several times compared to conventional wells (typically 240-330°C at 2-3 km). A single superhot well might generate 40-50 MW under optimal conditions, dramatically improving economics and scalability for electricity production.
This aligns with global interest in "superhot rock" geothermal, where advanced drilling and materials handle extreme conditions to unlock vastly more energy from the Earth's heat.
Boosting Regional Development: Ísafjörður and Gálmaströnd
The second-largest award went to Orkubú Vestfjarða (Westfjords Power Company):
- 160 million ISK for geothermal utilization in Ísafjörður, aiming to reduce reliance on imported fuels for heating and potentially expand local energy security.
-25 million ISK for exploratory drilling at Gálmaströnd in remote Steingrímsfirði, focused on creating preconditions for job growth and value creation in Strandabyggð.
These projects exemplify how geothermal can "level the playing field" for remote regions, supporting sustainable heating, economic activity, and reducing fossil fuel dependence.
Broader Scope: Maintenance, Microseismicity, Heat Optimization, and Heat Pumps
The remaining grants support diverse innovations:
- Technologies for maintaining conventional geothermal equipment.
- Microseismic research to better understand reservoirs and manage induced seismicity.
- Improved heat extraction efficiency from existing systems.
- Integration of heat pumps with geothermal setups for enhanced low-temperature utilization.
These efforts aim to extend asset lifespans, minimize environmental impacts, and maximize output from Iceland's abundant but finite high-temperature fields.
Why This Matters for Iceland and the World
Iceland already derives nearly 100% of its electricity from renewables (mostly hydro and geothermal) and over 90% of heating from geothermal. Yet challenges remain: Some areas lack access, conventional wells have limits, and global climate goals demand scaling renewables rapidly.
This 600 million ISK injection signals strong governmental commitment to innovation. By prioritizing deep drilling and tech development, Iceland positions itself as a leader in next-generation geothermal—potentially exporting expertise, attracting investment, and contributing to global decarbonization.
As Minister Jóhannsson noted: "I have tremendous faith that Iceland can pave the way here." With IDDP-3 breaking ground soon and regional projects advancing, 2026 could mark a pivotal year in geothermal evolution.
The funding underscores geothermal's dual role: a reliable, baseload renewable for Iceland's energy needs and a driver of value creation through technology, exports, and sustainable industry.
As geothermal enthusiasts, let's celebrate this leap toward deeper, hotter, and more abundant clean energy! What are your thoughts on superhot geothermal's future? Share in the comments.
Source: Orkustofnun
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