Preliminary Environmental and Social Impact Assessment of Karisimbi Geothermal Prospect, Rwanda

Abstract

In this paper a preliminary environmental impact assessment of geothermal exploration and development at the Karisimbi geothermal prospect located on the southern slopes of the Karisimbi Volcano in Rwanda is presented. The sites for drilling 3 exploration wells were chosen after scientific studies and taking into account the possible impacts on the mountain gorillas in the National Volcanoes Park. It is anticipated that noise created by the drilling and discharge operations of the wells during the testing period may have an impact on the mountain gorillas. Other impacts might include the unpleasant smell of hydrogen sulphide and poaching in the park. To minimize the utilization of fresh water, drilling fluid will be recycled and future drilling might use a mixture of fresh water and brine if the exploration wells are successful. A minimum of 4 wells will be drilled at each well pad to minimize environmental impact and the size of land required in this densely populated and high yield agricultural area. Exploration drilling will have socio-economic impacts and benefits on the local community and therefore an environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) will be carried out prior to drilling. If exploration drilling is successful, then a full ESIA will be carried out as part of the feasibility studies.