Top End Energy has been granted the 38th Petroleum Exploration Permit in the Northern Territory’s McArthur Basin, the first explorer to be granted the permit within the NT since 2015.
The company joins Tamboran Resources, Empire Energy and Santos within the basin, which is the parent basin of the Beetaloo Sub-Basin.
The Petroleum Exploration permit allows Top End Energy to explore from an identified section of land. Currently, the company is in the final stages of acquiring three additional granted exploration permits surrounding the Beetaloo Sub-Basin.
NT chief minister Eva Lawler said this is a significant milestone for the government backing the onshore gas industry.
“Our clear commitment to the natural gas industry is attracting investment, supporting economic growth and securing affordable gas to power Territory homes for years into the future,” Lawler said.
“The strong pipeline of private investment entering our onshore gas industry signifies confidence in our region, it signifies major growth to our economy and it signifies more opportunities for Territorians.”
Top End Energy managing director Oliver Oxenbridge agreed and said receiving the grant is a culmination of ongoing collaboration with the company.
“Being the first exploration permit to be granted in the NT since 2015 is a testament to the dedication of our team and the prospectivity of our acreage position,” Oxenbridge said.
“We appreciate the constructive, collaborative engagement of the NT Government and associated regulatory bodies during the process.”
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