RPS recently managed the environmental assessment and regulatory approvals for Epic Energy’s QSN 3 project, the 940 km duplication of the existing South West Queensland Pipeline and QSN Link Pipeline, which combined run from Wallumbilla, Queensland, to Moomba, South Australia.
The company said that this work has built on the approvals management and the construction and operations support it provided for Epic Energy on the QSN Link Pipeline.
RPS utilised its network of offices in Brisbane, Adelaide and Toowoomba to provide Epic Energy with local environmental management and ecological expertise during the approvals process and the current construction phase.
Recent pipeline approvals undertaken by RPS, such as the QSN 3 project, the Berwyndale to Wallumbilla Pipeline and the Surat Gladstone Pipeline, are cited by the company as highlighting its ability to obtain timely approvals and provide pragmatic solutions to complex issues.
For a recent project, RPS said that it played a key role in negotiating permits to construct a pipeline through a state forest where there was initial regulatory reluctance. RPS estimates that its solution, which achieved positive environmental outcomes through the use of disturbed road easements and the implementation of offsets, saved the proponent tens of millions of dollars in project costs as the pipeline did not have to deviate around the forest.
“The early identification of issues and risks, a deep understanding of the industry, strong capability to deliver practical and cost-effective environmental solutions, and a sound relationship with regulators has been central to RPS’ success,” the company said.
RPS is an international consultancy providing solutions for energy and resources, infrastructure, environment and urban growth, and has been involved in the development of more than 30 of Australia’s pipelines over the past two decades. The company’s team has aided in the preparation of industry benchmark documents such as the APIA Code of Environmental Practice.
Drawing on experience from every stage of the pipeline development process, RPS provides environmental approval, and management and land survey services through the feasibility, approvals, construction and operation phases of pipeline projects. The company has said that its growth into a national network has significantly bolstered its surveying and environmental capabilities, particularly in ecological, soils and hydrological services.