Icelanders’ energy consumption is unique, as 80% of our energy use comes from renewable sources, mainly geothermal energy and hydropower. The remaining fifth comes from fossil fuels that power ships, airplanes, and vehicles. In a few cold communities that do not have access to hot water, or when capelin processing plants operate at full capacity for a few weeks in early spring, fossil fuels are also used.
It could be said that outside Iceland the proportions are almost exactly the opposite. Last year, fossil fuels accounted for 76.5% of global energy consumption, while 19.7% came from renewable energy, and 3.7% from nuclear power.
Iceland produces a significant amount of energy—20 terawatt-hours (TWh)—which is still only about one fifteen-hundredth of the world’s total energy use. However, it places us first in the world in electricity production per capita, just ahead of our Nordic neighbors, the Norwegians.
Our rivers—some harnessed for power—provide immense energy that is sold to heavy industry, used in data centers, and helps light and heat homes during the dark winter months.
Here are several images of rivers from across Iceland—rivers that give us beauty, joy, and clean energy.
Yes, Iceland… Icelanders truly are a powerhouse of energy.
Photos & text : Páll Stefánsson
Iceland : 03/03/2026 : RX1R II, A7R IV – 2.035mmZ, FE 1.2/50mm GM, FE 2.8/100mm GM
