The Geysers

Brian Benn began working for PG&E Construction building the Geothermal power plants and developing hydrogen sulfide (H2S) abatement systems in June of 1978 just 5 days after graduating from the University of Wyoming in Chemical Engineering.  As construction neared completion Brian began working in Plant Operations, optimizing and improving the environmental control processes. Joining the Calpine team in 1999 when the various steam suppliers and plant operators were brought under the Calpine umbrella, he took the opportunity to expand his geothermal experience to the underground steam supply, fulfilling his lifelong passion for geology.  Brian has authored several technical papers on geothermal H2S abatement technology, plant efficiency, and down-hole corrosion protection.  Brian holds a patent for an unique elemental mercury vapor capture system utilized at The Geysers. Currently, Brian leads the Environmental Chemistry department at the Geysers making sure the geothermal resource remains clean, green, and renewable.