Media release: North West Shelf extension approval will ensure long-term gas supply for WA

Australian Energy Producers welcomes the Federal Government’s approval of the North West Shelf extension, a decision that will safeguard reliable and affordable gas supply for Western Australians.

Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said the extension of the North West Shelf project is critical to Western Australia’s long-term energy security and economic strength.

“The North West Shelf has been powering Western Australian homes and industry for 40 years, and today’s decision will ensure it continues to play a critical role in the state’s future energy security and economic prosperity,” Ms McCulloch said.

“The project’s extension is essential to avoid forecast gas shortfalls from 2030 and ensure reliable and affordable supply for households, businesses and manufacturers.”

Natural gas provides more than half of WA’s primary energy needs and 60 per cent of the state’s electricity, with the industry contributing $35 billion annually to the state economy and supporting more than 73,000 jobs.

Ms McCulloch said after six years of state-based approvals and delays, today’s decision provides much-needed clarity for industry and investors, reinforces and secures the state’s role as a global energy leader.

The project also supports Australia’s net zero pathway by ensuring reliable gas supply to back-up growing shares of renewables in power generation, while continuing to provide lower-emissions energy to major trading partners in Asia.

“WA gas is not only vital to local communities and industry – it strengthens our international role as a reliable energy supplier, supports decarbonisation in the region, and delivers long-term benefits to regional communities and workers across the state,” Ms McCulloch said.