Iceland harnesses green energy for heat, power

Imagine an entire nation dependent on something other than oil for its energy. It’s cheap. There’s plenty of it. And it means never worrying about instability half a world away.

But to find it, you have to go to Iceland — a country better known for its glaciers and booming fishing industry than leading the world in energy.

Here, it’s all about hydrogen and geothermal technology.

..But living on the cutting edge of technology has its costs — literally. Hydrogen buses generally cost about four times more than normal diesel buses — and passenger cars are averaging more than $150,000 each.

So how soon until consumers are actually able to afford it?

“People are asking when it will be a reality, and it will take some more time, ” Skulason said. “I think it will be about 10-to-15 years ahead.”

Fuel Cell Works