Progress continues on gas science program

The Victorian Gas Program’s third progress report has been released today summarising the scientific studies to date, into the state’s onshore conventional gas, offshore gas and underground gas storage potential.

The Victorian Gas Program’s third progress report has been released today summarising the scientific studies to date, into the state’s onshore conventional gas, offshore gas and underground gas storage potential.

The report indicates that the geology of the state’s onshore Otway Basin has the potential to host conventional gas in some areas, but it is too early to be definitive about future supply.

Areas that may hold onshore conventional gas resources in Gippsland are also being assessed.

The Geological Survey of Victoria will provide its findings to Government in early 2020 to help inform upcoming decisions regarding the current onshore conventional gas moratorium.

Fracking and coal seam gas do not feature in the studies as both were banned in Victoria in 2017.

The latest progress report also outlines an economic case for further development of underground gas storage to help secure reliable gas supply in the event of any interruptions to supply and to mitigate short-term price peaks.

Underground gas storage helps maintain supply when demand is at its highest on the coldest winter days.

Earth Resources Regulation is assessing bids for further offshore exploration in state waters off south west Victoria. The successful bidders will be announced in early 2020.

The Victorian Gas Program has also led extensive regional community engagement activities across south west Victoria, helping to inform land use modelling aimed at understanding the risks, benefits and impacts of any potential future onshore conventional gas exploration or development.

This work has captured the region’s unique natural, cultural and environmental features and will be a valuable evidence base for the community beyond the work of the Victorian Gas Program.

Quotes attributable to Head of Resources John Krbaleski:

“Next year will be an important one for the future of onshore conventional gas exploration and development, we’re on track to deliver the findings required to assess the current moratorium.”

“The Victorian Gas Program is delivering important work beyond assessing onshore conventional gas potential, we have identified further offshore gas exploration and more underground storage that can deliver benefits for the state’s energy supply.”

Quotes attributable to Victoria’s Lead Scientist Dr Amanda Caples:

“The Victorian Gas Program is delivering significant research that will be available to our regional communities for use long after our work has been completed.”

“Engagement is an important part of our work, the Victorian Gas Program has held over 600 regional events to understand the views of the community and stakeholders.”

Contact: Mark Farrugia

Phone: (03) 8392 6913