Each year, HS Orka welcomes a group of international students enrolled in the GRÓ Geothermal Training Programme, a UNESCO-affiliated development cooperation training centre. The visit is an important part of the students’ studies, as they typically spend six months in Iceland learning about the utilization of geothermal energy.
The Geothermal Training Programme has been operating continuously in Iceland for 48 years. During that time, it has shared Icelandic expertise in geothermal energy with hundreds of students from developing countries around the world, particularly from African nations.
Visiting the Newest Power Plant
The group that recently visited HS Orka consisted of around 30 students. Lárus Þorvaldsson, Supply Chain Manager, delivered a presentation on HS Orka and then guided the group through the company's facilities. The visit began at the Svartsengi Power Plant, where the students toured HS Orka’s newest power generation unit, before continuing on to the Reykjanes Power Plant.
Sampling Techniques and Training
As part of their annual training, the students also receive specialized instruction in sampling methods used in high-temperature geothermal areas, including collecting samples from both geothermal wells and fumaroles. This training recently took place at HS Orka’s wells near the Reykjanes Power Plant.
In addition, Yngvi Guðmundsson, Executive Director of Development and Construction, has for many years contributed to the programme by teaching courses on geothermal project development.
Through its participation in and support of the GRÓ Geothermal Training Programme, HS Orka helps promote the dissemination of Iceland’s unique and extensive knowledge of geothermal energy and its utilization, contributing to the sustainable development of geothermal resources worldwide.
