Preliminary environmental impact assessment for the Hágöngur high-temperature area, Central Iceland

Abstract

The Hágöngur high-temperature geothermal field is located near the western edge of Vatnajökull glacier, Central Iceland. It is one of 30-40 known high-temperature geothermal fields in Iceland. The first exploration well was successfully finished in September, 2003. Further exploration is expected. In this report, a preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is carried out on environmental effects due to a proposed geothermal power plant. A standard checklist for geothermal power projects was used for classification of possible impacts. Some possible environmental impacts are discussed and potential mitigating measures are suggested. The result of this study suggests that further studies be carried out on access road planning, visual impact, tourism and effluent discharging.