About
About ÍSOR
Iceland GeoSurvey (ÍSOR) is a leader in geothermal research and development — an independent state institution under the Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Climate.
Mandate
Knowledge for sustainable use
ÍSOR's legal mandate is to carry out projects and research in nature, energy and other resource matters, and to provide advice across most areas of geothermal utilisation.
ÍSOR operates commercially in a competitive market, in Iceland and internationally, serving the energy sector, public authorities and global clients in geothermal energy, groundwater, marine geoscience and environmental work.
Our values
What guides our work
Knowledge
Deep expertise in geological resources, built on decades of research and scientific knowledge.
Trust
Reliable, independent advice that clients and partners can rely on.
Results
A focus on delivering real results and valuable solutions for sustainable resource use.
Collaboration
Close collaboration with clients, institutions and international partners toward shared goals.
Progress
Innovation and the ambition to lead, globally, in advising on sustainable use of geological resources.
History
Milestones
- 1945
ÍSOR's research history begins when engineer Dr. Gunnar Böðvarsson returns from study and starts geothermal research.
- 1956
A Geothermal Division is formed, with Gunnar Böðvarsson as its director.
- 1967
The National Energy Authority (Orkustofnun) is founded under new energy legislation.
- 1997
The research divisions are merged and Ólafur G. Flóvenz is appointed director.
- 2003
Iceland GeoSurvey (ÍSOR) is established on 1 July as an independent state institution, spun off from Orkustofnun.
- 2023
ÍSOR marks its 20th anniversary as a leading institute in geothermal energy and geoscience.
Meet the people behind the research, or get in touch.