Iceland: An abundance of hydro and geothermal energy
Stationary energy use in Iceland is virtually free of fossil fuels, thanks to Iceland's abundant sources of hydro and geothermal energy.
VOLCANIC. Geothermal energy is playing a large role as an energy source in Iceland. (Photo: Visiticeland.com)
In Iceland, the political control over the energy issue lies with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Under the Ministry, the Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs is tasked with promoting better use of energy resources. The government agencies responsible for the energy area are ORKUSTOFNUN (the Icelandic National Energy Authority) and the Orkusetur (the Energy Agency). Orkusetur is mainly tasked with increasing energy efficiency in households and industry whereas ORKUSTOFNUN has been involved with energy policy and research for decades, including:
- Conducting research on energy issues, accumulating information, and maintaining a database of knowledge on energy resources.
- Collecting basic data on hydrological conditions, on the hydrological budget of Iceland’s freshwater and geothermal resources, as well as data on various natural and environmental processes.
- Disseminating knowledge on the exploration and exploitation of geothermal resources to developing nations.
- Executing administrative functions on behalf of the Icelandic government, and serve as a governmental advisor on energy issues.
Energy R&D in Iceland is also funded through RANNIS, The Icelandic Centre for Research. RANNIS is under the auspices of the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science and Culture. The rich natural resources in Iceland, especially hydropower and geothermal energy, are clearly visible in the energy innovation system, which has strong international linkages to Europe and North America. The Icelandic energy innovation system exhibits end-user-oriented learning as an important cornerstone.Follow the links below to learn more about Iceland's policies on climate, energy and renewable energy. Find also information on goals for lower CO2 emissions and suggested policy measures.
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