Sultartangavirkjun

Sultartangavirkjun is a hydroelectric power station located in the southern highlands of Iceland. It is part of the Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Project, one of the largest industrial projects undertaken in Iceland. The power station is situated on the Jökulsá á Dal river, utilizing the flow of water from the reservoir created by the Kárahnjúkar dam. Construction of Sultartangavirkjun began in 2003 and it was completed in 2007.

The primary purpose of Sultartangavirkjun is to generate electricity for the aluminum smelter operated by Alcoa Fjardaal in Reyðarfjörður. The power station's capacity is significant, contributing substantially to the energy needs of the smelter. It operates using Francis turbines, a common type of turbine for hydroelectric power generation. The design and operation of the power station are integrated with the broader Kárahnjúkar project, which also includes the Kárahnjúkar dam and the Hálslón reservoir.

Environmental considerations were a key aspect of the project's planning and execution. The creation of the Hálslón reservoir involved the flooding of a significant area of the highlands, leading to considerable public debate and environmental impact assessments. The project aims to harness the renewable energy potential of Iceland's abundant water resources. Sultartangavirkjun, therefore, represents a major component of Iceland's strategy for industrial development powered by renewable energy sources.