Destination of Energy and Nature in Reykjavík!

Elliðaárstöð is a destination in the heart of Reykjavík where visitors have the opportunity to learn about energy, resources and nature in a fun and playful environment. The old buildings of Elliðaárstöð power plant now have a new role. A wide range of services will be offered to visitors to the valley and customers of Reykjavík Energy.

The history of Reykjavík Energy has been connected to the Elliðaárdalur with unbreakable ties for the past hundred years. The water supply in Reykjavík originates in Elliðaár River, where the first electricity supply system was installed in 1921. Many of the boreholes used for heating are also located in Elliðaárdalur. Elliðarárstöð has a long history of foresight and will continue to take part in shaping the future through education, activating the mindpower and innovation.

Power Station
Elliðaárstöð Power Station is one of the most beautiful buildings in Reykjavík and an important source of the history of electricity in Iceland. It marked the beginning of electrification in Reykjavík when it was commissioned in 1921. It is a museum piece in itself, and is one of Iceland's most significant technological monuments.

Home of Utilities
Home of Utilities is an educational exhibition that used to be the home of the station manager and his family. Visitors receive education about the utility systems playfully and colourfully that can be transferred to their own homes. Here the secrets of the utilities hidden under floors and inside walls are revealed.

Visitor Center at Elliðaárstöð
In the beautiful space of the Visitor Center at Elliðaárstöð in a building called Straumskiptistöð, guests of Elliðaárstöð and customers of Orkuveitan are warmly welcomed with information and education about energy, utilities, and the Elliðaárdalur valley. Additionally, the building offers rental spaces for meetings and events.

Dofri Steam Drill
The Steam Drill Dofri caused massive changes in drilling for hot water and steam in Iceland. Dofri has often been called the most valuable machine in Iceland’s history, allowing Icelanders to replace coal and oil with hot water. Dofri is now on display at Elliðaárstöð and will remind the visitors of the valley of the foresight of the past.

Climate Square
At our Climate Square, Loftslagstorg, stands Gufuborinn Dofri, a steam drill that revolutionized drilling for hot water and steam here in Iceland. It is often called Iceland’s most valuable work machine as it enabled Icelanders to replace coal and oil with hot water for house heating. Now Dofri stands at Elliðaárstöð and reminds visitors of the foresight of the past.

Next to Dofri stands the iconic Carbfix injection well shelter, Borholuhús, that was originally designed for geothermal energy production for Orkuveitan. The Borholuhús serves an important role in protecting boreholes, and injection wells from weather and wind. It is a symbol of innovation in climate action as it has gained worldwide recognition. At Elliðaárstöð, the house will assume a new role as an experience and exhibition space.

Water Play Area and Restaurant
Water plays a major role at the playground at Elliðaárstöð, allowing curious young visitors to explore the behaviour of water in nature through play. The restaurant Elliði is located by the water garden.
  
Science communication
In Elliðaárstöð, a diverse educational program is offered for groups of all ages. It is possible to book a visit to the Power Station, the Home of Utilities, and an experiential walk around the area. In all student education, emphasis is placed on STREAM and design thinking. Every year we welcome thousands of students for educational visits here at Elliðaárstöð. Book a guided tour here.

Welcome to Elliðaárstöð in the heart of Reykjavík!