Rafmagnið

Rafmagnið, literally the electricity, is the form of energy produced by the flow of electric charge. It powers lighting, appliances, machines and transportation, and enables most modern activities by delivering energy through electrical grids. In electrical systems, energy is transmitted as current through conductors and distributed from production sites to consumers via the electric grid. Most systems use alternating current (AC) at varying voltages suited to different purposes.

Production and distribution: Electricity is generated in power plants from diverse energy sources, such as hydroelectric, geothermal, fossil fuels or nuclear power. It is transformed to high voltages for long-distance transmission, carried by high-voltage networks, and then stepped down by substations for safe use in homes and businesses. The energy is finally delivered to end users at usable voltages. In Iceland, Rafmagnið is almost entirely produced from renewable sources, primarily hydroelectric power and geothermal energy, with utilities such as Landsvirkjun and the transmission operator Landsnet managing generation and grid operations.

Units and measurement: The rate of energy flow is measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). The total energy consumed or produced over time is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The standard unit for electric potential difference is the volt (V) and for electric current the ampere (A). The electricity grid relies on a balance between generation and consumption to maintain stable voltage and frequency.

Environmental and social aspects: Electricity systems affect emissions, efficiency and reliability. High shares of renewable generation can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security, though they require investments in transmission, storage and grid resilience. Rafmagnið remains central to modern life and economic activity.