Industry leaders have released a strategic gas roadmap outlining how it can power the Northern Territory’s economic and jobs growth in the years ahead.
The plan, titled ‘Powering the Territory: A plan to unlock the energy and economic potential of the NT’, highlights the Territory’s opportunity to leverage its gas resources through collaboration between industry, government and the community.
Key actions proposed for the next NT Government include ensuring energy security, unlocking economic and employment opportunities tied to gas, streamlining approval processes for faster gas supply deployment, incentivising and supporting low-emission technologies, and supporting a robust LNG export industry.
Since April 2024, NT’s Lawler Government has signed energy security arrangements with three gas producing companies who are also providing working opportunities in the Territory.
“My Government is taking a common sense approach to securing the Territory’s energy supplies to ensure we have reliable and affordable power for Territorians and Territory businesses,” NT’s Chief Minister Eva Lawler said.
The gas sector currently underpins 86 per cent of the Territory’s power generation, contributes $5.8 billion annually to its economy, and sustains over 6000 local jobs. Natural gas is touted as essential for maintaining energy security and driving economic activity.
Australian Energy Producers NT director David Slama said the strategic plan provides a gas roadmap to unlock the industry’s potential in NT.
“At the centre of the plan, we make clear that industry needs streamlined approval processes to bring on new gas supply sooner and deliver energy security for the Territory,” he said.
“We highlight the need for regulatory certainty to deliver new gas supply, support a strong LNG export industry, and grow investment in low emission technologies.
“In addition to the Territory’s LNG export sector being a major economic driver, growing the onshore gas industry is key to the Territory becoming financially independent.”
Subscribe to Energy Today for the latest project and industry news.