Virkjun

Virkjun is the Icelandic term for a facility that generates electricity. It refers to any plant that converts energy into electrical power, including hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, solar, and, in some contexts, fossil-fuel plants. In everyday usage, virkjun often denotes large-scale plants, while smaller installations may be described as power stations in other languages.

A virkjun consists of an energy source, turbines connected to generators, transformers, and a connection to the electrical grid. Hydroelectric power plants use the potential energy of water to drive turbines; geothermal power plants exploit steam or hot water from underground reservoirs; wind power plants use wind turbines; and solar power plants use photovoltaic arrays. Operation is coordinated by grid operators and subject to environmental authorities, with assessments of water use, emissions, noise, and landscape impact.

In Iceland, virkjun play a central role in the electricity system. The country relies predominantly on renewable energy, with hydro and geothermal plants supplying the vast majority of power; the grid also supports district heating in some areas. Construction and expansion of virkjun are guided by environmental planning, energy policy, and community consultation.

Etymology: virkjun comes from the Icelandic verb virkja, to activate or empower, with the suffix -un forming a noun indicating the process or result.