Orkuveitan to lead deep geothermal drilling project in Iceland targeting 400 °C temperatures
Signing of cooperation statement for the IDDP-3 deep drilling project (source: Orkuveitan)
Carlo Cariaga
21 Oct 2025
Icelandic energy companies have signed a cooperation statement for the IDDP-3 project, which aims to drill to 4-5 kilometers targeting 400 °C temperatures.
During the recently held Superhot Summit conference held in Iceland, a cooperation statement was signed between the Ministry of the Environment, Energy, and Climate, and energy companies Reykjavik Energy (Orkuveitan), Landsvirkjun, and HS Orka for the IDDP-3 deep drilling project. The aim of the project is to drill the IDDP-3 geothermal well, targeting temperatures of up to 400 °C at a depth of 4000 to 5000 meters.
“Drilling deeper than we have ever done before is the next evolutionary step in energy production. By harnessing energy from deeper and hotter layers of the Earth, we can multiply the output of individual wells, reduce costs and reduce environmental impact,” said Hera Grímsdóttir, Executive Director of Research and Innovation at Orkuveitan.
The well will be drilled at the vicinity of the NJ-11 well, which was drilled back in 1985. Drilling is scheduled to begin in 2026.
Hera emphasized that the project combines research, innovation, and high-tech solutions in the fields of engineering, geosciences and artificial intelligence. By testing new drilling designs, flow systems and analytical technologies under real-world conditions, an important step will be taken towards the full utilization of superheated geothermal systems.
The next chapter of geothermal in Iceland
The move to develop superhot geothermal systems is a logical next step for the company, which has already pioneered the pioneering the construction of the world’s first large-scale district heating system for Reykjavik. “We build on decades of experience, a strong scientific community and collaboration with innovative companies,” said Hera.
Minister Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson also emphasized the steady support of the Icelandic government for geothermal initiatives. “If we can harness regions where temperatures exceed 400°C, we can redefine the economics of clean, safe energy,” the minister said. “Superheat can create the foundation for new industries, innovation and value creation.”
Moreover, the Minister said that work has already begun on Iceland’s first geothermal roadmap which sets out goals and policies for geothermal development, research, innovation, and sustainably until 2050.
Source: Orkuveitan
