The Mapping of Geothermal Environmental Impacts and Risks in Iceland

Abstract

The main objectives of this study is to map environmental impacts and risks, as well as their perception and to define how environmental footprint of deep geothermal plants in Europe is measured and controlled in different countries, and also analyze adopted solutions to reduce or circumvent impacts and risks, and quantify their potential and their technology readiness level. In this communication the focus is on the experience of Iceland especially with Environmental Impact Assessments which were first made mandatory by Act N. 63/1993 on Environmental Impact Assessment but later amended by Act No. 106/2000. The term “environmental impacts” refers to the following parameters. • Landscape/scenery changes • Effects on vegetation • Effects on fauna • Effects on surface water and ground water • Effects on local climate • Effects on tourism • Effects on seismic activity • Noise • Gas emissions/Odor • Socio/economic effects. The following risks are considered most important in geothermal utilization and are treated in this communication. • Landslides • Steam pillow explosions • Fracture movements • Earthquakes • Lava flows • Gas collected in lows