Nesjavellir geothermal plant generates electricity and hot water
by utilizing geothermal water and steam. The plant output is 120
MWe and 300 MWt/1800 litres per second. Exploration and planning
for utilization started as early as 1947 and was continued for
two years. A few experimental boreholes were drilled for the
evaluation of the exploitable power and the chemical composition
of the steam. Following a time of intermission, exploration and
research continued with some regularity from 1965 to 1986. The
construction of the geothermal power station was commenced in
1987 and the cornerstone was laid in May 1990. Like the rest of
the Hengill area, Nesjavellir is popular for recreational
activities. Reykjavik Energy has organised the outdoors areas of
its land there, marking hiking and riding trails. Archaeological
finds and other historical cultural artifacts have been
registered, a total of 375 sites at Nesjavellir and Ölfusvatn.
Two hikers' shelters, open to everyone, have been built in the
Hengill area.