Exploratory drilling in Gjástykki
In July 2009, Landsvirkjun presented an initial environmental impact statement (IEIS) for the exploratory drilling in Gjástykki.
Plans for drilling in this area are a part of the collaboration of Landsvirkjun and Theistareykir ehf. on the research and exploration of the harnessing options of high-temperature areas in North-east Iceland, i.e. at Theistareykir, Krafla, Bjarnarflag and Gjástykki.
The geothermal system at Gjástykki is believed to cover an area of approximately 10 km2. In order to find out if there is any usable geothermal energy for processing, two prospecting boreholes will have to be drilled to obtain the necessary data on the nature of the geothermal energy in the area. According to the policies of the local authorities, Gjástykki will be the last project in a series of projects aimed at harnessing geothermal energy in the Thingeyjarsýsla region. To begin with, the focus will be on research in the area, including exploratory drilling.
The IEIS report discusses the environmental impact of the planned exploratory boreholes. The report is under examination by the Planning Agency. Everyone is entitled to inspect the IEIS and submit comments. Comments to the IEIS must be sent to the Planning Agency.