The Australian Federal Government has opened public consultation on five potential areas for the 2021 Offshore Greenhouse Gas Storage Acreage Release program.
Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt said the acreage release provides opportunities for companies to explore for sites that have the potential for permanent geological storage of carbon dioxide in offshore Australia.
“This acreage release comes at a time when the oil and gas industry is looking for pathways to reduce their carbon emissions,” Minister Pitt said.
“Carbon capture and storage is a priority low-emission technology for reducing the emissions of Australia’s resources sector.”
“The 2021 Offshore Greenhouse Gas Storage Acreage Release will play an integral role in supporting Australia’s resources sector to maintain Australia’s position as an energy export leader, whilst supporting global emission reductions.”
Minister Pitt added that the consultation process would help government in its decision to release an area for bidding and that submissions would also help potential explorers in their understanding of factors they needed to consider when applying for an area or planning exploration activities.
“The government welcomes feedback from stakeholders on how they might be affected by exploration activities in an area. All interested parties are encouraged to provide comments and feedback on the nominated locations,” the Minister said.
Submission can be made via the Consultation Hub until 12 October 2021.
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