A possible second pipeline, following the completion of the 270 km Fortescue River Gas Pipeline in May 2015, was raised by FMG Development Director Peter Meurs at the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) 2015 Conference, also in May, flagging a potential pipeline extension to the Chichester hub.
However, an FMG spokesperson today told The Australian Pipeliner that while there are currently no plans to extend the pipeline due to the company’s current restrictions on spending, it remains an option for the resources major.
“Gas is a naturally occurring resource in WA. It is a cleaner and greener resource and the best energy source for our industry, and for our state,” the FMG spokesperson told The Australian Pipeliner.
“As we continue to seek further cost reductions while driving operating efficiencies, our focus will be on opportunities to increase gas conversion across our operations including power generation and our mining fleet to significantly reduce our diesel consumption.
“Built for expansion, the Fortescue River Gas Pipeline connecting the Bunbury to Dampier Gas Pipeline to Fortescue’s Solomon mine in the Pilbara is one of WA’s most significant pieces of new energy infrastructure and is integral to the future sustainability, growth and development of the Pilbara.”
The pipeline was the longest gas pipeline built in WA in the past ten years, aiming to reduce the company’s diesel use from about 750 MMl/a to 580 MMl/a.
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