CME chief executive Paul Everingham said the WA Government’s refusal to endorse the guidelines would give the State’s gas industry confidence that its multi-billion dollar projects and associated economic and social benefits to the State would not be put at risk.
“Today’s comments by Premier Mark McGowan are a win for common sense, as well as a cleaner energy future,” he said.
“His Government’s rejection of the EPA’s recommendations will reassure industry that the transition to a cleaner energy future, of which gas will play a major part, will not be jeopardised.
“We are pleased the Premier shares the CME’s view that climate policy, including emissions reduction, must be conducted at a national level.
“The WA economy cannot afford to lose tens of billions of dollars in investment that will flow from some of these gas projects, including Woodside’s $US11 billion Scarborough gas project and its $US20.5 billion Browse development, as well as Chevron’s $US34 billion Wheatstone LNG plant and its $US45 billion Gorgon LNG plant.
“These gas projects in WA will also mean more affordable and reliable energy for WA homes.
“It’s also good news for West Australians, who will benefit from the thousands of new cleaner energy jobs created from these projects.”
CME looks forward to working with the State and Federal Governments on meaningful and practical climate change reform.
