What's Happening?
COWI is playing a supervisory and advisory role in Iceland's first commercial-scale wind farm, the Vaðölduver project, led by Landsvirkjun. This 120 MW wind farm marks the integration of wind energy into
Iceland's electricity generation portfolio, complementing the country's hydropower and geothermal systems. Located near the Sultartangi Hydropower Station, the project is expected to begin operations between 2026 and 2027, supplying clean electricity to households and industries. COWI's involvement includes site supervision, quality oversight, and contributions from over 40 specialists in various engineering and environmental fields.
Why It's Important?
The Vaðölduver wind farm represents a significant advancement for Iceland's renewable energy sector, introducing wind power as a new source of clean energy. This development supports Iceland's climate goals and long-term sustainability plans, addressing increasing national energy needs. The project also demonstrates a feasible technical and regulatory pathway for wider wind energy deployment, providing a model for future national planning. It enhances energy security and diversifies Iceland's energy portfolio, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.
What's Next?
As the Vaðölduver wind farm progresses towards operational status, Iceland may consider further wind energy developments, informed by the project's technical and regulatory framework. The successful integration of wind power could lead to increased investments in renewable energy infrastructure. Stakeholders, including government agencies and environmental groups, are likely to monitor the project's impact on energy security and sustainability. Future planning may involve expanding wind energy capacity and exploring additional renewable energy sources.
