Air quality impact assessment : H2S dispersion modelling for the Sabalan geothermal power plant, NW-Iran

Abstract

In this study, the AERMOD dispersion modelling was applied to estimate the spatial distribution of H2S concentrations in northwest Sabalan geothermal area. These estimates were made to assess the potential environmental impact of H2S due to the exploitation of the proposed 55 MWe Sabalan geothermal power plant. The study was done to provide recommendations concerning the local air quality and health effects in the populated areas close to the geothermal field, and for the workers in the vicinity of the proposed geothermal power plant. Two scenarios based on different locations of the power plant (emission source) were modelled, for 1, 8, and 24 hours, and 8 months averaging time, using available meteorological data from January to August, 2009. The modelling results are compared to the international ambient air quality and occupational standards. The results show that no significant health and environmental impacts are expected in northwest Sabalan geothermal area due to the proposed geothermal power plant.