Geothermal energy is playing an increasingly important role in the global energy transition and is considered a key pillar in the development of sustainable energy systems for the future. Experts from EFLA attended the World Geothermal Congress (WGC) in Canada, where this development was at the forefront, and Iceland’s leading expertise was clearly visible on the international stage.
WGC is the world’s largest conference dedicated to geothermal energy, bringing together experts, policymakers and companies to discuss the sustainable use of resources and the development of future energy systems.
Three experts from EFLA participated in the congress: Skúli B. Jónsson, Director of Industry, along with industry specialists Kristleifur Guðjónsson and Aron Óttarsson. Their participation provides valuable insight into global developments while strengthening EFLA’s connections within the international professional community.
Geothermal Energy in a Global Context
Geothermal energy has become an integral part of global energy solutions, with countries around the world increasingly exploring its use for electricity generation, heating and industrial applications to reduce emissions and enhance energy security.
Expertise in geothermal energy is therefore highly valuable, and decades of experience have positioned Iceland at the forefront of geothermal development. This creates growing opportunities for the export of knowledge and solutions in the energy transition of the future.
EFLA has extensive experience in consulting and design within the geothermal sector and has contributed to a wide range of projects, from energy production to direct use applications in industry, buildings and infrastructure.
This breadth of expertise is essential in the ongoing development, where emphasis is placed on the integrated and efficient utilisation of geothermal resources in energy transitions.
Opportunities in Direct Use of Geothermal Energy
At WGC, EFLA experts participated in a session focused on the direct use of geothermal energy, addressing energy security and opportunities in utilising low-temperature resources. Aron Óttarsson presented Iceland’s experience in harnessing geothermal energy at temperatures as low as 20°C for aquaculture.
In this context, low-temperature geothermal energy is used to heat seawater, creating optimal conditions for species such as salmon and Arctic char.
Aquaculture in Iceland generated approximately USD 442.2 million in export value in 2025 and has grown rapidly, partly due to access to low-temperature geothermal resources. With continued expansion of land-based aquaculture, production capacity could increase significantly, further boosting export value in the coming years.
The presentation also highlighted how the direct use of geothermal energy in aquaculture can support food security, reduce import dependency, and create jobs in regions with limited employment opportunities. In this way, geothermal energy can serve as a key driver for the development of valuable export industries—not only in the energy transition but also in sustainable economic development.
Aron Óttarsson industry expert at EFLA, delivered a presentation on the utilisation of low-temperature geothermal energy.
Blueprint on Geothermal Direct Use
Alongside WGC, Green by Iceland published a blueprint outlining a comprehensive overview of Iceland’s position in the energy transition and how geothermal energy can be transformed into strategic infrastructure for affordable heating, industrial development and sustainable growth.
EFLA experts contributed to the development, writing and review of the blueprint, providing their knowledge into shaping its content and professional foundation.
The blueprint highlights, among other things, the growing global demand for reliable renewable energy sources, the importance of Icelandic expertise, consulting and design in the energy transition, and the opportunities for Icelandic companies to participate in international projects.
The content aligns closely with EFLA’s operations and long-term ambition to be an active contributor to this transition, utilising expertise in geothermal energy and sustainable solutions to create value both domestically and internationally.
