Geothermal Energy
Harnessing the Earth’s Heat: Iceland’s Geothermal Energy and its Path to Net Zero
Witnessing an Eruption
"I was floating on a lake of magma, dodging molten lava bombs hailing down on me from the sky. I may have been too close... and at the same time, I felt alive." These words, spoken by Chad Copeland, encapsulate the raw, unfiltered intensity of being at the epicenter of Earth’s primal forces. Copeland, a National Geographic contributor and BBC cinematographer, found himself near the Fagradalsfjall volcano on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula, witnessing an eruption that marked the awakening of “the people’s volcano” after 800 years of dormancy.
On the evening of March 19, 2021, the volcano erupted, painting the skies with a fiery glow that could be seen for miles. It followed weeks of seismic activity, over 40,000 earthquakes rattled the region, a prelude to the molten spectacle. As Copeland navigated the trembling ground, which he likened to a waterbed, lava bursts illuminated the night, their heat palpable even from a distance. For Iceland’s geoscientists, it was an extraordinary moment, the culmination of decades of study, and an unparalleled opportunity to learn from the planet's fiery depths.
Lava Tornado
"Formed by intense heat"
As the lava pours out and spreads across the ground, it heats the air above it, creating a powerful updraft. This updraft, combined with the strong winds that often accompany volcanic eruptions, can cause the heated air to spin, forming a vortex that draws in more hot gases and debris.
The result is a towering column of spinning fire and ash, known as a volcanic lava tornado. These fiery whirlwinds can reach heights of several hundred feet and can be visible for miles around, making for a truly unforgettable sight.
While volcanic lava tornados are a rare occurrence, they serve as a stark reminder of the raw power and unpredictability of nature.
Copeland talks on a radio with scientists over safety concerns.
At Fagradalsfjall, the lava flowed in waves, each burst of molten rock offering scientists a glimpse into the Earth’s inner workings. Sæmundur Halldórsson, a lead geologist from the University of Iceland, compared the process to a lava lamp, where heat drives molten material from deep within the mantle toward the surface. This eruption was unique in that it showcased rapid changes in magma composition, from depleted to enriched types, reflecting the dynamic nature of Iceland’s geothermal reservoirs.
Scientists hover near the volcano to collect data.
The story of Fagradalsfjall is not just about volcanic drama; it is a reminder of the immense potential that lies beneath our feet. The eruption did more than captivate the world; it spotlighted Iceland's profound relationship with the forces beneath its surface. Geothermal energy, the lifeblood of this island nation, has propelled Iceland to the forefront of renewable energy innovation.
The Power of Geothermal Energy
For centuries, Icelanders have harnessed their volcanic heritage, transforming it into a cleaner, greener future. Today, nearly 90% of Icelandic homes are heated by geothermal energy, and a quarter of its electricity is generated by geothermal power plants. These plants, in turn, power energy-intensive industries, support year-round agriculture, and provide a model for sustainability that resonates across the globe.
But this journey toward sustainability is far from over. Iceland has set its sights on even greater heights: achieving carbon neutrality by 2040, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030, and phasing out fossil fuels entirely by 2050. These goals are part of a broader Climate Action Plan, which outlines measures like modernizing vehicle fleets, switching harbors to electrical systems, and supporting research into alternative energy sources like ammonia for refrigeration and electricity for fishmeal plants.
Iceland’s expertise in geothermal energy has not only powered its own transformation but also inspired global change. Collaborating with the United Nations Environment Programme, Iceland shares its knowledge with nations in Eastern Africa, helping them tap into geothermal energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The Power of Geothermal Energy
As Copeland and his team of scientists documented the eruption, the vivid imagery of lava tornados and molten fountains became more than just a spectacle, they symbolized the untapped potential of geothermal energy. Through continued innovation and international collaboration, Iceland proves that the path to net zero is not just achievable, it is already being charted.
