HYDROPOWER ENERGY

Hydroelectric energy is a form of energy that harnesses the power of water in motion – such as water flowing over a waterfall – to generate electricity. Hydropower also has some critical impact on the environment it can destroy ecosystems, in addition it is quite expensive. But one fact is there are no emissions which are dangerous for humans or nature. The hydroelectric use is green and clean because it does not release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The first hydropower station was built in 1904. Now, there are fifteen hydropower stations in four operational areas across Iceland.

Nowadays, a small carbon footprint is really important. Renewable energies reduce the carbon footprint of the whole country. In addition, the geothermal energy is used to heat Iceland’s greenhouses. These greenhouses are used to grow vegetables that helped Icelandic people to become more independent of international food imports.

Nevertheless, Iceland can not yet completely do without fossil fuel, as they are currently unavoidable in the transport sector. Even though Iceland still does some progress in this sector. Electronic mobility is getting more and more popular all over the country. The government is currently investing in charging infrastructure for electric cars.

The importance of renewable energies in Iceland is huge. More and more investors come to Iceland to start a company because of a favourable market environment. As a result, the number of available jobs for Icelandic people increases.

Since 1924 Icelandic people have been using geothermal water to heat their greenhouses and to disinfect the soil between the crops. Furthermore, the warm soils in geothermal areas are used to grow potatoes and other vegetable for centuries. The availability of green energy for lighting the greenhouses has enabled farmers to extend the growing season, thus increase their production.

The main production of Iceland’s farmers is salad, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, herbs, mushrooms and strawberries. Icelandic veggie farmers can cover about 43% of the countries vegetable consumption. Icelanders are almost 70% self-sufficient in tomatoes and almost 100% selfsufficient in cucumbers.

Did you know that they even grow bananas in the greenhouses?

In summary, Iceland isn’t the most sustainable country. But when it comes to renewable energy, Iceland is worldwide exemplary. Getting 99% of energy out of geothermal power and hydropower is outstanding.

By Hannah, Elena, Olimpia and Jorina