LNG Jobs Taskforce study underway in Western Australia

A new study is underway on the opportunities and benefits of carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) and carbon capture and storage (CCS) development in Western Australia. Commissioned by the LNG Jobs Taskforce, the study will help inform the future of the state’s existing gas industry and the development of new industries and projects.

According to the LNG Jobs Taskforce, CCUS and CCS have the potential to assist with decarbonising the gas industry and other emission-intensive industrial sectors, achieving the Western Australian Government’s target of net zero by 2050, regional development and future job creation.

Eni and BP have joined existing taskforce members Shell Australia, Chevron, Santos and Woodside, as well as NERA and the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, as partners in the study.

CSIRO and the Global Carbon Capture Storage Institute will conduct the study, which is expected to be completed in the second half of 2022. CSIRO researchers have a wide range of experience in CCUS, petroleum exploration and renewable energy resources, including hydrogen.

The Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute is an international think tank backed by governments, businesses and non-governmental organisations. Its mission is to accelerate the deployment of CCS globally.

Established by the WA Government in 2018, the LNG Jobs Taskforce brings together industry, government and unions to collaborate on challenges and opportunities for WA’s existing LNG sector, with the aim of maximising local jobs and establishing WA as a global LNG hub.

The taskforce comprises the Minister for State Development, Jobs and Trade; the heads of Woodside Energy, Chevron Australia, Shell Australia, Santos and INPEX Australia; and representatives from the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) and UnionsWA.