Veitur move 100-ton rig into Laugardalur for geothermal drilling

Veitur are moving a 100-ton drilling rig into Laugardalur, a district in Reykjavík, to search for hot water, mbl.is reports. The work marks a new chapter in the area’s nearly century-long history of geothermal use.

Veitur have been preparing to drill at two locations, Engjateig and Bolholt. Drilling at Engjateig is due to begin next week and continue until spring 2027. Work at Bolholt will start later and last for a shorter period.

The aim is to improve the reliability of hot-water supplies and meet the needs of a growing community, Veitur said. Nine wells are already in use in the district.

Brynja Ragnarsdóttir, who leads water distribution at Veitur, said the drilling would help secure services for the future while continuing Reykjavík’s long history of geothermal use.

Because the work is taking place in a densely built-up area, the construction zones will be fenced off. Veitur said it would regularly update residents, businesses and passers-by. Steam will be visible when the well is tested, which the company described as a normal part of drilling; people will be notified in advance.