Environmental management and monitoring in Iceland : Reinjection and gas sequestration at the Hellisheidi power plant

Abstract

In the Hengill geothermal system monitoring programmes have been developed in connection with Environmental Impact Assessment. The aim is to measure the response of the Nesjavellir and Hellisheidi power plants through extraction of geothermal fluid as well as to record the influence of the utilization on the environment. The data collected is used to calibrate numerical prediction models of the geothermal field and is also the key to solve most problems which may come up in the operation. The CarbFix and SulFix projects have proved to be successful methods to reduce emission of CO2 and H2S emission from power plants to the atmosphere.