Overview
Sultartangi is a 120 MW hydroelectric power plant in Iceland, operated by Landsvirkjun. It harnesses the country's abundant hydropower resources for clean electricity generation.
Sultartangi is a hydroelectric power plant located in Iceland, owned and operated by Landsvirkjun, the national power company. With a capacity of 120 MW, it is a medium-scale facility within Iceland's extensive hydropower network, which supplies the majority of the country's electricity. The plant utilizes Iceland's abundant glacial rivers and volcanic terrain to generate renewable energy. As a hydroelectric facility, it produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions, aligning with Iceland's clean energy profile. The technology is typical of Icelandic hydropower, relying on high-head water sources and efficient turbine systems. Sultartangi plays a key role in Iceland's grid, supporting both residential and industrial demand, including energy-intensive sectors like aluminum smelting. Its operation contributes to Iceland's status as a global leader in renewable energy, with nearly 100% of electricity from renewable sources.
Environmental context
Hydroelectric power in Iceland benefits from the country's unique geology and hydrology, with minimal environmental impact compared to fossil fuel plants. The Sultartangi facility operates without combustion, thus avoiding air pollutant emissions. Its location in a sparsely populated area reduces local ecological disturbance, though reservoir creation can affect river ecosystems. Iceland's strict environmental regulations ensure sustainable operation.
Frequently asked questions
Sultartangi is located in Iceland, at coordinates 64.1672 N, -19.6212 W, in a remote area suitable for hydropower generation.
Sultartangi has a capacity of 120 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale hydroelectric facility within Iceland's power grid.
Sultartangi is owned and operated by Landsvirkjun, Iceland's national power company, which manages most of the country's hydroelectric plants.
Hydroelectric plants in Iceland must comply with the Icelandic Environmental Impact Assessment Act and the Nature Conservation Act, which require assessments of ecological impacts, water use, and habitat protection.
Sultartangi supports Iceland's nearly 100% renewable electricity grid, providing clean hydropower that displaces fossil fuel use and supports industrial and residential demand.