The permits are for state waters near Portland and Port Campbell, close to existing gas assets such as Beach’s Halladale, Black Watch and Speculant Project and its Enterprise Project, while Lochard Energy’s Iona Gas Plant is also nearby.
The new permits are part of the Victorian Government’s push to increase domestic gas production in the state, with the onshore conventional gas industry to restart in 2021 after the moratorium was lifted earlier this year.
The state government said gas would continue to play an important role in the decarbonisation of Victoria’s energy future.
“We’re encouraging safe and sensible gas exploration that brings jobs and investment to our regions as well as additional supply for homes and businesses to keep the lights on and their houses warm,” said Victorian Minister for Resources Jaclyn Symes.
“This industry interest backs the extensive geoscience of the Victorian Gas Program, showing there’s a good chance of boosting local gas supply while maintaining protection of our precious natural environment.”
Beach and Bridgeport are required to work with the commercial fishing industry, local communities and government bodies along Victoria’s southwest coast as they conduct exploration programs, as the state government said offshore gas resources can be accessed from onshore without disturbing the marine environment.
For more information visit the Victorian Government website.
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