The Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA (CME) welcomes Premier Roger Cook’s recognition of the enduring role of gas for the State’s future energy security, as well as the critical importance of the proposed Browse development.
Responding to the Premier’s assessment that WA faced a “Browse-sized hole” in its near-term energy requirements, CME Chief Executive Officer Aaron Morey said it would be impossible to meet the rapid growth in global energy demand without new gas projects coming online.
“The Premier is right: gas will be essential to keeping WA’s energy system reliable and affordable for decades to come,” Mr Morey said.
“Browse is a no-brainer for WA. It would drive a $147 billion uplift in economic activity, support thousands of well-paying jobs and provide the firming capacity needed to support the deployment of renewables both at home and abroad.
“WA’s LNG exports do more than support our economy — they make Australia an indispensable energy partner for our Asian neighbours in an increasingly hostile and uncertain world.
“That reputation matters. Amid global energy disruption, Australia’s standing as a reliable LNG supplier has strengthened our ability to maintain access to critical imports, including fuel and fertiliser.”
In welcoming the Premier’s support for Browse, Mr Morey said the $48.7 billion project should not be viewed as a direct alternative to hydraulic fracturing.
“Browse and onshore gas are not either-or options. In an energy-hungry world, WA will need every reliable energy source it can responsibly develop,” Mr Morey said.
“WA held a scientific inquiry into hydraulic fracturing that concluded the risks were low if controls and processes are followed.
“Western Australia is a tier one resources jurisdiction and our existing policy and regulatory frameworks are well-equipped to manage the environmental, health and safety aspects.”
Media contacts:
Josh Zimmerman j.zimmerman@cmewa.com / 0404 947 719
Natasha Mutch n.mutch@cmewa.com / 0435 383 382