First geothermal exploration well in Krýsuvík, Iceland drilled with promising results
The Odin drill rig with Sveifluháls in the background. (source: HS Orka)
Carlo Cariaga
8 Aug 2025
Drilling of the first exploration well at the Sveifluháls area in Krýsuvík, Iceland has been completed with promising initial results.
HS Orka reports that drilling of the KR-10 well, the first geothermal exploration well in the Sveifluháls area in Krýsuvík, Iceland, has been successfully completed. The first measurements are promising, but further analyses and measurements will be done over the coming months to further evaluate the geothermal potential in the area.
Drilling in Krýsuvík started in April 2025. Drilling operations are being done by Iceland Drilling, using the Odin electric drill rig. In this first exploration drilling, a slightly shallower well was drilled than originally 2750 meters depth planned. Well KR-10 was drilled to a TVD of 2200 meters with a MD of 2600 meters.
The results of the first drilling indicate high geothermal potential in the area, although it is too early to say whether it will be exploited. However, these initial results raise hopes that the area can be used for geothermal exploitation in the near future. The well is now allowed to heat up so that further testing can be done to evaluate the temperature, pressure, and volume of geothermal fluid for further decision-making.
Exploration drilling in Sveifluháls is based on the agreement signed between the Hafnarfjörður Municipality and HS Orka in June 2024 in connection with the potential utilization of geothermal resources in Krýsuvík. The agreement aims to explore the possibility of harnessing geothermal energy and extracting groundwater in the land of Krýsuvík in an economical and environmentally friendly manner, in parallel with the development of a resource park where further utilization of process streams can take place.
Preparation for drilling of the next well, KR-11, is already ongoing. It is planned in the area just north of Bleikhól and planning changes for the well are currently being made in collaboration with Hafnarfjörður Municipality.
The geothermal development in Krýsuvík is expected to provide security to the supply of hot water in the Suðurnes region., as the area currently predominantly relies on supply from the Nesjavellir hydroelectric power plant and the Hellisheidi hydroelectric power plant in the Hengil area. The Krýsuvík area has so far been highly regarded as a geothermal area for energy production. There are hopes that it will produce hot water for Hafnarfjörður and the capital region, as well as electricity for the national grid.
Source: HS Orka
