The utility Veitur began drilling for hot water at the junction of Kringlumýrarbraut and Suðurlandsbraut in Reykjavík on 16 October 2026. The new borehole is meant to secure enough hot water for a growing community and adds to nine boreholes already in use in the Laugardalur area. The heat beneath Laugardalur has warmed Reykjavík through its district heating for nearly a century.
How the work started
Mayor Hildur Björnsdóttir and Sólrún Kristjánsdóttir, managing director of Veitur, gave short speeches and formally started the drilling. Before the work began, safety matters were reviewed and guests received protective equipment: vests, helmets and safety glasses. The mayor started the drill by pressing a button in the control house. The drill rig stands in plain view of passers-by.
Why the city is drilling
The city describes the drilling as part of efforts to secure enough hot water for a growing community and as a new chapter in the history of geothermal use in the area. The heat beneath Laugardalur has played an important role in Reykjavík’s district heating for nearly a century. Nine boreholes are already in use in the area.
The mayor said the drilling is a good reminder that infrastructure cannot be taken for granted. She called the project an important step in ensuring that residents continue to enjoy a secure and strong district heating supply for years to come.
Drilling in a dense urban area
According to the city, drilling in a dense urban environment requires careful preparation, and the work sites will be marked off. Veitur will regularly inform residents, businesses and passers-by while the work is under way. When the borehole is tested, steam will be visible on the site. The city notes that this is a normal part of drilling and that neighbours will be told in advance.