USA, Hawaii: Governor Acts to Protect Puna Geothermal Venture

Governor Ige Takes Steps To Mitigate Risks To Puna Geothermal Venture Posed By Kilauea Eruptions (News Release)

Pentane to be removed from PGV by end of Thursday

Puna Geothermal Venture can be seen at lower right,
close to the line of lava flow.
Honolulu Star-Advertiser photo by Cindy Ellen Russell.  

Gov. David Ige has issued a supplemental emergency proclamation for the 2018 Kilauea eruption that, among other emergency management functions, establishes lines of authority that will enable a more comprehensive response to changing and unpredictable risks posed by the current eruption. Those risks include possible impacts to Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV), which is located on Kilauea’s Lower East Rift Zone.

Given the current situation, the governor determined that a team approach will ensure the most responsive and effective outcomes. Puna Geothermal Venture will be incorporated into the team to provide critical knowledge of the facility and operational functions.

The team will review and assess the existing PGV Emergency Response Plan and develop a specific mission strategy deemed appropriate to mitigate potential impacts from lava. Expected steps include addressing the supplies of pentane gas used in the production of geothermal power including options for off-site relocation or controlled leakage or burn. Contingency plans will be made to secure and evacuate area residents should lava intrusions cause elevated levels of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) or sulfur dioxide (SO2) to be released.

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