EV Charging Network in Iceland: Where to Charge

Iceland has emerged as one of Europe's most electric vehicle-friendly destinations, with a robust charging infrastructure that makes exploring the island's dramatic landscapes entirely feasible in an EV. The Nordic nation's commitment to renewable energy—with virtually 100% of its electricity generated from geothermal and hydroelectric sources—means your electric road trip around Iceland carries an exceptionally small carbon footprint.

Understanding Iceland's Charging Infrastructure

The backbone of Iceland's EV charging network consists of three primary operators: ON (formerly Orka náttúrunnar), Isorka, and Tesla Superchargers. ON Power operates the most extensive network, with over 200 charging points across the country, making it the dominant player for public charging. Their stations utilise both Type 2 AC chargers (typically 22kW) and CCS DC fast chargers reaching up to 150kW.

Tesla's Supercharger network, whilst smaller with approximately 30 locations, provides crucial coverage along the Ring Road and to key tourist destinations. These 250kW stations are now open to all EVs with CCS charging capability, though Tesla vehicles still receive preferential pricing.

Ring Road Coverage

Reykjavik to Akureyri (Eastern Route)

The 461km eastern section of Ring Road 1 offers excellent charging coverage. Key stops include Selfoss (57km from Reykjavik), where ON Power operates a 50kW CCS station at the N1 petrol station. Continuing east, Hvolsvöllur (106km) provides both ON Power and Tesla charging options.

The crucial Höfn charging station (457km from Reykjavik) features four 50kW CCS chargers and two Tesla Superchargers, serving as the primary charging hub for Vatnajökull National Park exploration. From Höfn, the next major station lies 203km away in Egilsstaðir, where both ON Power and Tesla maintain facilities at the Egilsstaðir Airport area.

Akureyri to Reykjavik (Western Route)

The 462km western stretch presents fewer charging options but adequate coverage for most EVs. Akureyri itself hosts multiple charging locations, including a Tesla Supercharger station and ON Power facilities at Glerártorg shopping centre. The 128km stretch to Blönduós includes a crucial charging stop at Varmahlíð (75km from Akureyri).

Borgarnes (318km from Akureyri) marks the final major charging opportunity before returning to the capital region, with ON Power operating a 50kW station at the town centre.

Westfjords Charging Network

The remote Westfjords peninsula presents Iceland's most challenging EV territory, with limited but growing infrastructure. Ísafjörður, the region's largest town, features ON Power charging at the town harbour and a newer Tesla destination charger at Hotel Ísafjörður.

The 203km journey from Borgarnes to Ísafjörður includes an essential intermediate charging point at Búðardalur (110km), operated by Isorka with 22kW Type 2 charging. For the adventurous, Patreksfjörður offers a single 22kW charger, enabling access to Látrabjarg cliffs—Europe's westernmost point.

Reykjanes Peninsula and South Coast

The Reykjanes Peninsula enjoys dense charging coverage due to its proximity to Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport. Key locations include the Blue Lagoon (50kW ON Power station), Grindavik (22kW Type 2), and Keflavik Airport (multiple operators with both AC and DC options).

The famous Golden Circle route offers charging at Selfoss, with an additional station planned for Geysir by late 2024. The South Coast's crown jewel charging location sits at Vík (187km from Reykjavik), featuring both Tesla Superchargers and ON Power 50kW stations, perfectly positioned for exploring Reynisfjara black beach and the nearby basalt columns.

Charging Costs and Payment Methods

Public charging costs vary by operator and charging speed. ON Power charges approximately 49 ISK per kWh (€0.33) for DC fast charging and 39 ISK per kWh (€0.26) for AC charging. Tesla Supercharging costs around 52 ISK per kWh (€0.35) for non-Tesla vehicles, whilst Tesla owners pay roughly 42 ISK per kWh (€0.28).

Most operators accept contactless payment cards, though downloading the relevant mobile apps (ON app, Tesla app) provides the most seamless experience. The ON app offers real-time availability, reservation capabilities, and detailed pricing information.

Practical Charging Strategy

Plan your journey assuming 70% of your vehicle's official range in Icelandic conditions, accounting for cold weather, headwinds, and mountainous terrain. Winter driving can reduce range by up to 40%, making conservative planning essential.

Charge to 80% at each major stop rather than waiting for low battery warnings. The combination of limited infrastructure and harsh weather makes this conservative approach crucial for stress-free travel. Most charging sessions at 50kW stations require 30-45 minutes for a meaningful top-up, perfectly timed for exploring nearby attractions or grabbing traditional Icelandic hot dogs.

Iceland's EV charging network continues expanding rapidly, with new stations commissioned monthly. However, the current infrastructure already supports comprehensive exploration of this remarkable island, from the thundering Gullfoss waterfall to the remote Westman Islands ferry terminal in Landeyjahöfn, where charging facilities support island-hopping adventures.

The marriage of Iceland's renewable energy abundance with its growing EV infrastructure creates an unparalleled sustainable travel experience, allowing visitors to witness some of Earth's most spectacular landscapes whilst maintaining minimal environmental impact.

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