The New South Wales Government has placed the Port Kembla Gas Terminal (PKGT) on its Priority Project List that aims to fast track activities to support the state’s economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of the project, Jemena has planned to build a 6 km gas pipeline to connect the proposed PKGT to the 797 km Eastern Gas Pipeline (EGP).
Jemena is also looking to invest in making the EGP bi-directional so it can support the flow of gas to Victoria while also delivering more gas to homes and businesses across NSW.
Jemena Executive General Manager of Gas Markets Antoon Boey said the company is planning to be shovel-ready should PKGT receive a final investment decision.
“We welcome today’s announcement from the NSW Government as a vital step towards expediting this crucial gas project,” said Mr Boey.
“We know many NSW and Victorian homes rely on gas for cooking, hot water, and heating and that it is an irreplaceable input into manufacturing and commercial operations in both states.
“We’ve taken steps to ensure we’re ready to commence construction of our pipeline link as soon as we know the import terminal is proceeding.
“The proposed upgrades to the EGP are the cheapest way of bringing new gas and competition to NSW to help drive down costs.”
Jemena plans to invest $70 million to build the lateral pipeline and modify the EGP, with more than 180 jobs expected to be created throughout the project’s development and construction phases.
The company is ready to commence work once the PKGT announces its final investment decision, which is expected before the end of 2020.
For more information visit the Jemena website.
This article was originally published on 16 September 2020.
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