Swimming pools closed in Reykjavik due to geothermal plant malfunction

All swimming pools in Reykjavik have been closed following a malfunction at the Nesjavallavirkjun geothermal power plant, which caused a reduction in hot water production. The incident occurred early this morning, and although some of the production machinery has resumed operations, the facility is still not functioning at full capacity.

Due to the ongoing repairs, Veitur, the utility company responsible for distributing hot water to residents, is urging the public to conserve hot water. Sólrún Kristjánsdóttir, the managing director of Veitur, emphasized on social media that conservation does not mean people should stop showering altogether. Instead, she encouraged residents to retain heat within their homes by keeping windows closed and minimizing unnecessary hot water usage.

Veitur has also reached out to their largest customers, particularly those on adjustable tariffs, requesting that they limit hot water consumption as much as possible. These customers benefit from discounted rates in exchange for agreeing to reduce usage during similar disruptions.

The situation underscores the dependence of the capital’s residents on the Nesjavallavirkjun facility for their hot water supply, prompting swift action from the utility company to manage and mitigate impacts on the community while repairs are underway.