Iceland Advances Geothermal Competitiveness
The Government of Iceland has initiated a policy development process to enhance its position as a leading geothermal country. The Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Climate appointed an expert working group to develop policy recommendations aimed at maintaining and increasing Iceland's geothermal competitiveness.
Expert Group Leadership and Members
Minister Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson appointed the expert group, chaired by Bjarni Pálsson, President of the International Geothermal Association and Managing Director of Wind and Geothermal at Landsvirkjun. The group includes:
- Auður Agla Óladóttir, Geologist at ÍSOR
- Sigurður H. Markússon, Leader of Deep Utilization at Orkuveitann
- Elena Dís Víðisdóttir, Project Manager at Orkubúir Vestfjarði
- Finnur Sveinsson, Business Manager for Sustainability at HS Orka
- María Erla Marelsdóttir, Ambassador at the Development Cooperation Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Objectives of the Initiative
The expert group is tasked with providing proposals to the Minister that focus on:
- Creating conditions to increase electricity and heat production from geothermal energy
- Promoting technological advancements in geothermal utilization
- Using geothermal energy systematically to drive value creation and to improve living standards and housing conditions across Iceland
“The policy development process aims to strengthen Iceland’s competitiveness as a geothermal country,” said Minister Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson.
This comprehensive initiative reflects Iceland’s commitment to leveraging its geothermal resources for sustainable growth and equitable development.
Author's Summary
Iceland has launched an expert-driven policy initiative to boost geothermal energy use, enhancing technology and living standards across the nation through sustainable development.