Landsvirkjun receives research approval for Theistareykir area in North Iceland
Drilling rig on site at Theistareykir, Iceland
Alexander Richter
11 Jan 2011
Icelandic National Power company, Landsvirkjun receives research permit for initial work at the Theistareykir geothermal area in the North of Iceland.
In news this morning from Iceland it is reported that Landsvirkjun (National Power company) received extended exploration permit for the Gjástykki High Temperature Geothermal field in Northeast Iceland
Icelandic National Power company, Landsvirkjun, receives extended exploration permit for initial work at the Gjástykki geothermal area in the Northeast of Iceland.
In news this morning from Iceland it is reported that Landsvirkjun (National Power company) has received extended exploration permit for the Gjástykki area. Now the comany can continue research and exploration on geothermal resources, groundwater and mining materials in the region of Nordurthing, Theistareykir and Reykjahlídar in Gjástykki.
The Gjástykki area is estimated to provide a geothermal power development potential of 55MW (medium estimate by the Icelandic National Energy Authority, prepared by ISOR in 2009)
In preparation for the application for a research permit, the company sought the opinion of the Ministry for the Environment, as well as local communities in the region.
The permit provides an authorization for the exploration of geothermal energy, groundwater and quarries, as well as general environmental studies necessary to evaluate the potential impact of possible utilization in accordance with the given permit.
The permit will be valid from 10 January 2011 until 31 December 2013.
It does not allow for the utilization of mineral resources. In order to utilize the resources the company will have to apply for a development and utilization license, and needs to reach an agreement with local right holders about royalties for the resources.
Source: Morgunbladid (in Icelandic), updated Jan. 27.
