Icelandic energy innovator Reykjavik Energy (Orkuveitan) initially approached NOV for a mud treatment package to support a geothermal drilling rig. In early 2025, NOV delivered a complete mud treatment system that included Brandt™ Alpha™ shakers, a HS-3400 centrifuge, agitators, a mud hopper, centrifugal pumps, and a custom mud tank for its rig Auður.
Throughout the project, NOV worked closely with Carbfix, an Orkuveitan company and pioneer in geothermal energy and carbon mineral storage, to better understand its operational challenges and future plans.
The visit helped Orkuveitan and Carbfix better understand how NOV could support an onshore energy transition project in Iceland involving CO2 injection and geothermal exploration drilling. Several drilling sites were too remote to easily access grid power, requiring a self-contained power solution capable of supporting demanding rig operations.
Drawing on more than two decades of experience supplying portable power systems to offshore operators in the North Sea, NOV’s portable power specialists worked with representatives from Veitur, an Orkuveitan company and the largest utility in Iceland, to assess requirements and develop a fit-for-purpose solution.
NOV’s team applied its expertise in drilling operations and power management to identify requirements beyond the customer’s initial specifications. Engineering reviews revealed that the original power plan could have left the rig operating near capacity during peak demand periods. The final solution included three 1,250-kVA generators, a 690-V transformer, cabling, installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance support.
The modular power system was designed for harsh operating environments and easy mobilization between projects. Features such as integrated fire and gas shutdown systems, automatic fuel management, and ruggedized construction make the units well suited for Iceland’s challenging conditions while reducing operational demands on rig personnel.
The full power system shipped from Aberdeen in May 2026 and will be installed quickly to initially support Veitur’s geothermal drilling campaign. “But as Orkuveitan continues expanding its low- and high-temperature geothermal, carbon capture, and new energy markets, this same mobile power infrastructure can be redeployed to support additional drilling and injection projects,” said Cochrane.
The project demonstrates how NOV is leveraging decades of drilling and power expertise to support emerging renewable energy opportunities beyond traditional oil and gas. By combining proven technologies, application knowledge, and customer-focused collaboration, NOV is helping renewable energy developers like Orkuveitan solve complex operational challenges while supporting their long-term growth.