Updated geothermal resource assessment released in Iceland

Iceland GeoSurvey (ÍSOR) has published an updated assessment of the country’s geothermal resources, reaffirming Iceland’s exceptional conditions for geothermal utilization.

The updated study provides new data and analysis on resource potential across the country, offering valuable input for both policy and project development. According to ÍSOR, Iceland’s geothermal characteristics remain globally unique, with extensive opportunities for electricity generation, heating, and industrial use.

The report was presented this week in connection with a government meeting focused on renewable energy and the role of geothermal in Iceland’s future energy mix. Officials emphasized that the updated resource mapping will serve as a foundation for strategic planning and sustainable development.

“These results highlight once again how geothermal energy is not just part of Iceland’s past, but a key pillar for its future,” ÍSOR noted in the release.

Summary of the 2025 Iceland Geothermal Assessment

Scope: First comprehensive update since 1985, incorporating extensive new data on geothermal heat flow, borehole productivity, and regional heat distribution.

Findings:

• Iceland’s geothermal endowment is larger and more precisely mapped than before, with significant high- and low-temperature fields identified across 14 regions.
• The natural heat flow within volcanic zones is far higher than in older crustal areas, with measured heat flow values up to 500 mW/m².
• The combined exploitable thermal energy of geothermal systems is estimated at 4,100 kg/s of mass flow and 635 MWth of thermal power from known fields.
• High-temperature fields (e.g. Hengill, Krafla, Reykjanes) could provide between 1,860-6,520 MWe over a 50-year utilization horizon.

Advances since 1985:

• Much improved mapping of temperature gradients and heat flow across the country.
• Better understanding of sustainable yield, with frameworks for long-term utilization.
• Integration of data on natural hot springs, low-temperature fields, and district heating operations.

Policy relevance: The report underlines geothermal as Iceland’s strategic advantage for power, heating, and industrial use, providing a strong base for future energy planning and climate policy.

With increasing international attention on energy security and decarbonization, the updated assessment underlines Iceland’s leadership in geothermal research and application.

To read more about geothermal news from Iceland, see our Iceland related news coverage here.

Source: Iceland GeoSurvey (ISOR)