Awarded the Global Energy Prize for the project «Research and development to implement hydrogen energy generation in Iceland».
Thorsteinn Ingi Sigfusson was born on June 4, 1954 in Vestmannaeyjar Islands. In 1973 he graduated from the University of Copenhagen where he studied Physics and Mathematics. In 1983 Sigfusson received his Ph.D. in physics from Cambridge University. In the same year he completed a PhD thesis on the subject «Electronic Structure and Magnetic Excitations in Ni 3Al»..
In 1978 he worked in Cavendish Lab of Cambridge University. Later Sigfusson started working in Research Institute of Exact Sciences at the University of Island. In 1985 he was qualified for the position of a Professor in experimental physics. And in 1986 Sigfussonalready became the Professor of solid state physics. He further became a Professor of the University of Iceland, and it happened in 1989 . In 1991 he joined the Board of Nordic Industry Foundation. In 1994 he became the Chairman of Icelandic Research Council Board of Industry and Technology. From 1997 to 2000 Sigfusson was appointed by the Government to the post of Chairman of Icelandic Research Council «Rannis».
Since 2000 he was the President of Icelandic New Energy Ltd. and the Chairman of the thermoelectric company of Genery-Varmaraf Ltd. With his scientific works and researches Sigfusson made a great contribution to the study of using low-temperature geothermal reserves for electric power and heat generation.
In 1988 Thorsteinn Ingi Sigfusson along with Johann Halfdanarson were nominated to the Nordic Technology Prize. Global Energy International Prize Laureate for the project «Research and development to implement hydrogen energy generation in Iceland».
Scientific activities
- Made a great contribution to research of issues of utilization of low-temperature geothermal resources for production of electric energy and heat.
- Played a key role in the development of aluminum industry of Iceland.
- Author of ideas connected with the development of alternative energy sources.