New gasfield approved near Twelve Apostles puts climate and ‘pristine’ ocean in jeopardy, environmentalists warn
Summary
The federal and Victorian governments have approved a new gas drilling project called the Annie gasfield in the Otway basin, expected to start producing gas by 2028. Environmental groups warn this project could harm the ocean near the Twelve Apostles and slow down the shift to cleaner energy in Victoria.Key Facts
- The Annie gasfield project is located about 9 km off the coast near Peterborough and Port Campbell, close to the Twelve Apostles.
- The project could produce up to 65 petajoules of gas, which is over one-third of Victoria’s yearly gas use.
- Gas demand is falling as more people move to electric power, but some industries still need gas.
- Environmental groups say the new gasfield risks the ocean environment and harms efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
- Victoria aims to reach 95% renewable energy by 2035, but new fossil fuel projects may slow progress.
- Victoria is the largest gas user in Australia, especially in manufacturing and industrial heating.
- The Australian Energy Market Operator expects gas supply shortages to be delayed until 2029 due to new projects and less gas use.
- The opposition plans to pause major renewable energy transmission projects and support urban solar farms instead of new power lines.
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