Exploring the Impact of Australia's Future Gas Strategy and Decommissioning Technology
On August 29, the "Australian Future Gas Strategy and Decommissioning Technology Forum" was successfully hosted by the Australia Chinese Energy and Resources Association (ACERA) at the Parmelia Hilton Hotel in Perth. The event was initiated by ACERA President Mr. Yongfeng Lu, with Vice President Mr. Xipo Zhang and Ms. Yuxi Lu playing key roles in its organisation and execution.
The forum commenced with Xipo Zhang hosting and paying respectful tribute to the traditional custodians of the land. This was followed by an opening address by Mr. Yongfeng Lu, whose insightful and heartfelt remarks set the tone for the seminar, attracting experts, scholars, and industry leaders. He extended sincere gratitude to key guests, including Ms. Xiuqing Yang and Mr. Shuwei Wang from the Chinese Consulate General in Perth, for their unwavering support of ACERA. Dr. Xiaoxuan Sun, President of CCCA WA, and other leaders of Chinese enterprises were also recognised. Special acknowledgment was given to the keynote speakers: Ms. Catherine Kesteven, Acting General Manager of the Gas Division at the Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources; Dr. Shaun Sadler, General Manager of CODA; and Dr. Minnie Lu, Head of Decommissioning at Santos Ltd., whose contributions greatly enriched the discussions.
Distinguished guests such as Mr. Kuang Likun (Managing director of CNOOC Australia), Mr. Fengxu Jian(Former ACERA President), Dr. Jeff Zhang (Section Chair of SPE WA and Principal Consultant of Wood), Mr. Martin Wilkes (Managing Director of RISC), and Ms. Martine Van Den Berg (Consultant Geologist of Mineral Resources) further elevated the event. Industry leaders from KPMG, ICBC, CCB, SLB, and student representatives from the UWA, Curtin and ECU also attended, adding breadth to the discussions. The success of the seminar was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Guangdong Dapeng LNG Company Ltd, Venas Co., Ltd, AMG Mining Services Pty Ltd, Wuxi Hongda Heavy Forgings Co., Ltd, and KMG Mining Pty Ltd. Special thanks to Linkar Wines for providing wine, creating a warm and collegial atmosphere.
In-depth Exploration of Policy and Technology
The thematic presentations began with Ms. Kesteven's detailed overview of the Australian Government’s Future Gas Strategy, outlining medium-term (to 2035) and long-term (to 2050) plans. She emphasised the importance of providing policy assurance to partners in the global transition to net-zero emissions.
Dr. Lu approached the topic from a technical perspective, introducing the fundamental methods and key activities involved in offshore and onshore oil and gas decommissioning. Her presentation covered the challenges and opportunities within the decommissioning process, sharing Santos’s best experiences in decommissioning projects.
Dr. Sadler looked towards the future, providing a detailed analysis of the outlook for offshore decommissioning in Australia. He noted that over the next 5 to 8 years, there will be a significant increase in offshore decommissioning work in Australia. This includes the permanent abandonment of rigs, the recovery of production facilities, and the dismantling of several fixed platforms. He also introduced the tools being developed by CODA to help the industry prepare and seize the opportunities presented by decommissioning.
Significance of the Seminar
This seminar provided a platform for participants to gain valuable insights into Australia’s future gas strategy and decommissioning technologies, fostering new opportunities for China-Australia cooperation in the energy sector. Through thematic presentations, Q&A sessions, and panel discussions, attendees engaged in fruitful exchanges that laid the foundation for enhanced collaboration between the two countries. The event focused on key issues such as energy security, sustainable supply, and the transition to a low-carbon future.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on ACERA’s decade-long commitment to promoting China-Australia energy collaboration, President Yongfeng Lu emphasised the association’s continued mission to facilitate exchanges and partnerships. He announced the upcoming China-Australia LNG Cooperation Forum 2024, scheduled for October 21st, which promises to further strengthen ties and foster industry collaboration.
