The Northern Territory’s Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has announced the first gas extraction from the Beetaloo Sub-basin operated by Daly Waters Energy.
The major shale gas resource is located 500km southeast of Darwin between Mataranka in the north and Elliott in the south.
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“This project means Territory gas powering Territory homes, businesses and industry,” Finocchiaro said.
“This is a win for all Territorians and a true turning point for the Territory.
The NT Government has previously been required to source emergency gas supplies at significantly higher costs to ensure reliable power generation.
Finocchiaro said Beetaloo gas was a strategic asset in reinforcing the nation’s energy security.
“At a time when we have seen the consequences of not investing in energy independence, the Territory is stepping up to become a reliable energy producer while ensuring Territorians benefit from the development of our world-class resources,” she said.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie slammed the announcement, saying, “Declaring the Beetaloo’s first gas flow a turning point is a sick joke. This is a climate bomb. Gas from the Beetaloo could unleash climate pollution more than three times Australia’s annual domestic pollution over the next two decades.
“Territorians are on the frontline. Worsening heat, floods and climate-fuelled disasters are already hitting Top End communities hardest, and this project makes that worse so multinational companies can export gas overseas.
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“It doesn’t have to go this way. Solar and storage are the cheapest new power in Australia and the Territory has more sun than almost anywhere on earth. Territorians deserve cleaner, safer, and cheaper energy—not more polluting and expensive gas.”
