What keeps Reykjavík warm, powers homes, and even heats the sidewalks in the middle of winter? In this episode of the Lava Academy Podcast, we uncover Iceland’s biggest energy secret: geothermal power.

Our guest, Kári Valgeirsson, geologist and science communicator at the

The Geothermal Exhibition at Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant joins hosts Ian MacKinnon and Ragnhildur Ágústsdóttir to explain how Iceland harnesses volcanic heat deep below the surface. From drilling into geothermal reservoirs (think sponge, not lake!) to the role of volcanic systems and basalt bedrock, Kári breaks down the science in a way everyone can understand.

We explore:

• How geothermal energy is formed and why Iceland is uniquely suited for it.

• The history of Iceland’s transition from oil to renewables.

• Everyday impacts—from heating homes and pools to powering cities.

• The exciting future of super-critical geothermal projects like the Krafla Magma Testbed.

Whether you’re fascinated by volcanoes, curious about clean energy, or planning a trip to Iceland, this episode offers insights you won’t want to miss.

👉 Listen now and discover how Iceland turns lava and heat into one of the cleanest energy systems in the world.

Shownotes

• The Geothermal Exhibition at Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant
• Iceland Deep Drilling Project
• Krafla Magma Testbed