Kárahnúkar

Kárahnúkar is a location in Iceland. It is known for the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant, a significant hydroelectric project that began construction in 2003 and was completed in 2007. The plant is situated in the eastern highlands of Iceland, near the Vatnajökull glacier. Its primary purpose is to generate electricity for an aluminum smelter in Reyðarfjörður, operated by Alcoa.

The construction of the Kárahnjúkar plant involved the creation of the Hálslón reservoir, which submerged a substantial area of the Icelandic highlands. This reservoir is fed by several rivers, including the Jökulsá á Dal, which was diverted to fill it. The project was controversial due to its environmental impact, including the alteration of landscapes, effects on wildlife, and the displacement of traditional land use. Protests and legal challenges were part of the public discourse surrounding the development.

Despite the controversies, the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant is one of Iceland's largest energy production facilities. Its operation is a key component of Iceland's energy-intensive industries, particularly aluminum smelting, which relies heavily on affordable and abundant electricity. The project has significantly altered the hydrology and geology of the region where it is located.