Guide de Voyage : Centrale Géothermique de Svartsengi

Svartsengi Power Station is a geothermal power plant on the Reykjanes peninsula. The station's excess water is used to fill the renowned Blue Lagoon.

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Svartsengi Power Station is located in the southwest of Iceland, near the town of Grindavik and close to Keflavik International Airport. Although it's not usually open to visitors, it is possible to drive past the plant on a self-drive tour.

The power station utilizes the high-temperature geothermal system in the area by drilling deep into the earth to tap into the geothermal reservoirs where water and steam reach high temperatures.

Geothermal Power

Svartsengi Power Station was built in six phases between the years 1974 to 2008 and was one of the first geothermal power plants in Iceland. The station is divided into six plants, and plans have already been made for a seventh one.

The energy at Svartsengi Power Station measures 76.5 MW, with about 475 liters/second of 194 °F (90 °C) of hot water (ca. 80 MWt).

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's biggest tourist attractions, has close ties to Svartsengi, as the milky-blue water of the lagoon is actually wastewater from the power station.

The Blue Lagoon was formed in 1976 when runoff water from Svartsengi Power Station began to collect in a pool. Over time, the pool grew and became a popular destination for bathing and relaxing.

The Blue Lagoon is open throughout the year and is popular in every season. It is a great way to start or end a visit to Iceland and is a part of numerous amazing tours.

Things To Do

While Svartsengi Power Station is usually not open to visitors, the surrounding area of Reykjanes Peninsula has plenty to offer. Plenty of tours are operated in the area, which is known for its harsh and barren beauty. 

After exploring the rugged landscape of Reykjanes, it is recommended to stop by the small fishing town of Grindavik, which is famous for its lobster soup.