Developments in geothermal and hydro power in Iceland, Europe and Worldwide

This paper presents and discusses the current state of developments in harnessing geothermal and hydropower for medium and large- scale generation of electricity and for space heating worldwide. This also reviews the potential and current developments and probable and possible developments both in developed and developing countries in near future and long term. Topics discussed will include challenges during construction and completion of the Karahnjukar 700 MWe Hydro Power Project in NE- Iceland, deep drilling projects in Iceland - exploration of deep unconventional geothermal resources, the phases of development of a 400 MWe generation capacity Geothermal Scheme in NE Iceland, geothermal development in reducing CO₂ emissions, and perspectives on the future of geothermal energy in the United States. Technology of harnessing geothermal power now and future will also be discussed. The economics, availability, and reliability of geothermal plants will be reviewed. Transmission of geothermal power from remote locations to populous load areas will be reviewed.