Australian oil and gas company Santos announced on Friday, December 15, 2023, that its Barossa Development Drilling and Completions Environment Plan (EP) has been approved by the regulator, the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA). The EP had previously been put on hold in September 2022 after NOPSEMA set aside its initial approval in March 2022. Since then, Santos has engaged in extensive consultations with the Tiwi Island people and other relevant parties, addressing concerns in line with regulations and NOPSEMA’s guidelines.
With the EP now approved, Santos is moving forward with its applications for the remaining necessary approvals for the Barossa Gas Project. The project aims to establish an offshore gas and condensate facility that will provide a new source of natural gas for the existing Darwin liquefied natural gas (DLNG) facility in the Northern Territory.
Located approximately 285 km offshore from Darwin in Commonwealth waters, the Barossa natural gas field will require the installation of up to eight wells and a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility as part of its subsea production system.
Santos is pleased that the Barossa Development Drilling and Completions Environment Plan has been accepted by NOPSEMA. We have worked closely with the Tiwi Island people and other stakeholders to address their concerns and ensure that the Barossa Gas Project proceeds in a manner that is safe and environmentally responsible, says John Smith, CEO of Santos.
The Barossa Gas Project will contribute positively to the energy landscape in Australia, supporting both domestic demand and potential export opportunities. Once operational, it is expected to bring economic benefits to the region by creating job opportunities and driving further investment.
With this recent greenlight from NOPSEMA, Santos is optimistic about the future of the Barossa Gas Project and remains committed to ensuring its smooth implementation, adhering to all necessary regulatory requirements and environmental considerations.
The approval of the Barossa Development Drilling and Completions Environment Plan by NOPSEMA marks a significant milestone for Santos and the Australian oil and gas industry. As stakeholders eagerly anticipate the project’s completion, the focus now shifts to securing the remaining approvals and moving forward with the next phase of this vital energy undertaking.
The Barossa Gas Project’s successful delivery will not only contribute to Australia’s energy security but also provide a valuable export commodity to meet growing global demand for natural gas. In an era where sustainable and clean energy sources are increasingly sought after, this project represents a noteworthy step forward for the industry.
Santos and its partners are determined to maximize the project’s potential while adhering to the highest safety and environmental standards. By leveraging their expertise and continued engagement with stakeholders, they aim to deliver a successful, responsible, and pivotal gas development that will benefit both the economy and the environment.
The approval of the Barossa Development Drilling and Completions Environment Plan by NOPSEMA reinforces Santos’ commitment to sustainable operations and responsible resource development. As the project progresses, it is expected to generate significant economic opportunities for the region, supporting job creation and fostering long-term growth in the oil and gas sector.
The regulatory approval signals a positive step forward for Santos and the Barossa Gas Project, bringing Australia closer to achieving its energy goals and strengthening its position as a reliable contributor of natural gas to regional and global markets. With each milestone reached, the project inches closer to realizing its full potential and making a meaningful impact on the country’s energy landscape.
