The Trans-Icelandic Powerline is a network of powerlines linking the main islands of Iceland (Iceland, Greenland, Baffin Island and Svalbard). The first serious proposals were put forth by the Federal Government in 2010, and the construction of the first stretch (Iceland to Greenland) began in 2014, and is predicted to be completed by 2020.
Details[]
From 1983, Icelandic Power began investing in new Hydrological Power Stations, whilst further research was put into Geothermal Power. Many breakthroughs were made, and in 1994 the construction of three Geothermal Powerstations were announced (Hellisheiði, Nesjavellir and Reykjanes), with construction beginning in 2000. In 2004 a further two power stations were announced in Svartsengi and Krafla.
By 2010, 53.4% of power was from Geothermal Energy, and 17.2% from Hydro power. The resulting effect was that energy prices in mainland Iceland dramatically fell, almost resulting in free electricity. However, whilst Svalbard and Greenland had been able to create their own hydrological and geothermal stations as well, Icelandic production of energy was still higher. With hopes that greater energy in Greenland could help with productions, in 2010 the Federal Government announced the creation of a Trans-Icelandic Powerline. There were mixed responses, though mainly positive. In 2011 it was announced that a consortium Australian, West German and Taiwenese companies would invest in work, and in 2014 construction of the first stretch between Iceland and Nuuk, Greenland was begun.
Predicted Timeframe[]
| Phase | Dates | Details |
|---|---|---|
| I | 2014-2020 | Iceland to Greenland |
| III | 2020-2030 | Greenland to Svalbard |
There have also been further proposals of a line to the British Isles and Norway.