Nesjavellir geothermal plant is in South Iceland’s Hengill area and sits on an active volcanic ridge. Therefore, the whole area a geothermal hot spot. Nesjavellir power station sits 177 m (384 feet) above sea level, and it is the second largest geothermal power plant in Iceland.
Plans for utilising the Nesjavellir area for geothermal power and water heating began in 1947. In 1987, the construction of the plant began, and the cornerstone was laid in 1990.
Today, the station produces approximately 20 mw of electrical power and delivers around 1.800 liters (476 gallons) of hot water per second.
Nesjavellir Hiking Trails
The Nesjavellir area is a popular getaway spot for Icelanders in the Reykjavík area. Many fantastic hiking trails wind around Nesjavellir. You can trek across a rugged mountain ridge with a great view of both the power station and the region. You might even spot Lake Þingvallavatn and Þingvellir National Park. The trail also winds around areas with steam vents and multicolored surfaces. In particular, one trail leads through the Reykjadalur area and its natural hot-spring fed bathing river.
Futhermore, if you would like to learn more about the area and the geothermal power plants, we recommend a visit to Hellisheiði Geothermal plant’s visitor centre, which is also in the Hengill area.
