This is the collection point and pressure equalization unit for a geothermal field about 50 km east of Reykjavik, Iceland, seen from a viewpoint at the edge of the valley on the road from Reykjavik. The steam goes from here in a huge insulated pipe (see the other photo) all the way to Reykjavik, where just about every building gets its central heating from it, or another like it. This one doesn’t produce electricity – the temperature at this location isn’t high enough for that to be economical – but for space heating it’s very worthwhile.
Close to Þingvallavatn.
August 2002.
©Clive K Semmens 2002