Projects & Programs
Dominion Chesapeake Energy Center Geochemistry Support
At the Chesapeake Energy Center located in Chesapeake, Virginia, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) researchers are developing a geochemical conceptual site model that explains the occurrence and mobility of arsenic in the subsurface and its natural attenuation along the groundwater flow path and into the adjacent surface water body. The Center, owned and operated by Dominian Energy, has provided reliable, efficient electric power for almost half a century.
Dominion Energy officials have requested assistance in demonstrating that monitored natural attenuation is an acceptable remediation alternative for arsenic contamination at the ash landfill associated with its coal-fired electricity generating facility. PNNL work scope consists of the following:
- Reviewing available site data
- Identifying data gaps
- Providing input to sampling and analysis plans
- Developing a conceptual geochemical model for arsenic fate and transport
- Conducting lab tests to document important geochemical processes
- Performing model calculations to simulate current and future arsenic migration in the aquifer
- Meeting with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Regulators.
The natural attenuation of arsenic leaching from the power plant ash waste would reduce the need for expensive capping or treatment of the source material.
The final product will include a technical report that documents movement of arsenic in the subsurface. Additionally, staff will provide an explanation of the technical basis for arsenic attenuation to state regulatory agencies.