Hjalti Páll Ingólfsson steps down, Sigurður H. Markússon appointed as new Director
After 15 years of serving as the Director of GEORG – Geothermal research Cluster, Hjalti Páll Ingólfsson has announced his resignation, as he moves on to a new endeavour in geothermal development. Since the creation of GEORG in 2009, Hjalti Páll has been instrumental in shaping GEORG into a unifying force within the geothermal sector, fostering close collaboration between universities, industry, and public authorities, both on national and international level. Under his leadership, GEORG has facilitated multiple large-scale projects and established itself as a strong, impartial platform, enabling key players in the geothermal sector to collaborate effectively.
This collaborative approach has had a profound impact, both in geothermal science and technology as well as international cooperation, with GEORG leading numerous large-scale European projects that have strengthened the sector and attracted significant funding and expertise for research and development. Since its inception, GEORG has been involved in securing over 17 billion ISK in international grants and support for collaborative projects with Icelandic participation, further advancing innovation and growth in the geothermal sector.
Reflecting on his time at GEORG, Hjalti Páll stated, “I leave GEORG proud of the achievements we have made, together we have been able to foster collaboration and significant advancement in geothermal development, both domestically and internationally. The future is bright, and I trust no one better than Sigurður Markússon to lead GEORG’s further development.”
Sigurður H. Markússon, an experienced leader in the geothermal sector, will now take the helm at GEORG. Markússon brings with him a vision for the next era, emphasizing the growing opportunities in the geothermal industry.
“I look forward to the challenges ahead,” Sigurður remarked. “Geothermal development has been a key factor in improving the quality of life in Iceland over the past 50 years, and we need to continue that path. Where we will go for higher temperatures, increase food production driven by geothermal energy and dispel the myth of “cold” areas. For this to happen successfully, we need a strong focus on innovation and research cooperation, both domestically and internationally. GEORG has become a strong brand in enabling such cooperation.”
For further information please contact Sigurður Magnús Garðarsson, the chair of the Board of GEORG
