Hellisheiðarvirkjun - Geothermal Power Plant
Hellisheiðarvirkjun is one of the largest geothermal power plants in the world, sitting on the Hengill volcanic ridge just 20 minutes from Reykjavik. It powers and heats much of the capital region, and its on-site exhibition gives visitors a genuinely interesting look at how Iceland turns volcanic energy into everyday life.
Inside Iceland's Largest Geothermal Power Plant
The Hellisheiði Power Plant sits on the Hengill volcanic ridge in southwest Iceland, about 25 kilometres east of Reykjavik. It is the largest geothermal power plant in Iceland and one of the largest in the world, with a capacity of 303 megawatts of electricity and 133 megawatts of hot water heating. That hot water flows directly into Reykjavik's district heating system, which is why the city's taps run warm without any gas or oil involved. Geothermal energy accounts for around 30% of Iceland's electricity and 90% of its space heating, and Hellisheiðarvirkjun is central to both.
The on-site Geothermal Exhibition is built inside the working plant and is open daily from 9am to 5pm. It covers the science of geothermal energy through interactive displays, films, and multimedia exhibits, including a section on Carbfix, a pioneering project that captures CO2 and turns it into stone underground. Visitors can look directly into the turbine halls and walk through exhibits on Iceland's volcanic geology, the history of geothermal energy use going back over a thousand years, and the future of renewable energy innovation. A self-guided audio tour takes around 45 minutes, and knowledgeable staff are on hand throughout. Guided tours are available for groups of ten or more by arrangement.
The plant is a natural addition to a Golden Circle itinerary, sitting conveniently on the route between Reykjavik and Þingvellir National Park. The surrounding Hengill area also has marked hiking trails through mossy lava fields and past steaming hot springs, making it worth arriving with a little extra time. Free parking is available on site, and there is a small café serving coffee and light refreshments.
