The development of a geothermal plant in any community calls for a high level of investment, high-paying jobs and long-lasting infrastructure. It contributes to the buildup of know-how and technology, tax revenue, stable energy prices and cleaner air.
SPONSORSHIPS, EDUCATION & EMPLOYMENT
Geothermal development has both environmentally and socioeconomically positive impact on communities. The closest example is Geysir's part-owned subsidiary HS that has spurred an array of economic activity around its geothermal operation in Svartsengi. The plant and surrounding activity employs over 200 people in the community such as the adjacent Blue Lagoon spa & health clinic, that has become one of the most popular tourist places in Iceland. The geothermal brine used by the health clinic contains natural ingredients such as silica, minerals and algae that helps reduce psoriasis symptoms. The plant also provides electricity and hot water for space heating to the neighboring municipalities.
The focus of Geysir's sponsorships is in the fields of environment, community support and education. Support has gone to the Blue Army, which is an environmental clean-up organization which operates all over Iceland. Since 1998, the Blue Army has enlisted students to clean up polluted areas of Iceland's coastline. The students collect trash and participate in the responsible disposal of hazardous chemicals under the supervision of environmental experts. Geysir will continue to focus on environmental awareness in its operation.
Athletic sponsorships have been distributed amongst the towns in the service area of HS Orka, as well as the Athletic Club Nes, which serves all disabled athletes in the Reykjanes area.
Geysir is proud to be a participant of the academic community and a founding shareholder of Keilir Atlantic Centre of Excellence, in Geysir's home town of Reykjanesbaer.