Energy in Iceland

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

In terms of energy, Iceland is the most environmentally responsible in the world. Only 15% of their energy comes from fossil fuels e.g. petrol, which are imported from abroad to fuel cars.

Question 2

Geothermal and hydroelectric energy

Answer 2

1) 65% of their energy is Geothermal
2) Iceland is well suited for this because it is located on a conservative plate boundary where the Eurasian plate and the North American plate meet.
3) This is because there is a lot of tectonic activity. For example, temperatures increase by 200 degrees Celsius for every 1km you descend into the Earth’s crust
4) This can be harnessed to warm water which is put into pipes and sent to homes or to create steam which turns turbines to form electricity
5) The remaining 15-20% of energy comes from HEP stations. Iceland is suited for this annual average rainfall is >800mm and there is lots of ice which melts and flows through rivers and can be transported into reservoirs.
6) This water is then run through enormous dams to generate power. Iceland gets over 2/3 of its electricity this way.