Shell’s QGC business revealed plans for a new large drilling campaign as it looks to boost gas supply to its Queensland Curtis LNG export plant and the domestic market.
Between now and 2024, Shell, along with its JV partners CNOOC and Tokyo Gas, would progressively drill and connect about 145 new gas wells as part of its QGC business in the Western Downs region of Queensland, it said in a statement.
The wells would connect to existing gas processing plants and would bring about 210 petajoules of gas to market over the next 15 years, Shell said.
QGC produces natural gas to supply the Australian domestic market but also for export as LNG via the two-train 8.5 mtpa liquefaction plant on Curtis Island in Queensland.
According to Shell, discussions with landholders are underway to agree access arrangements, as well as the location of wells to minimize any impact on farming activities.
Also, the firm already received all necessary state and federal government environmental approvals.
Shell Australia chairman Tony Nunan said the project would help boost the regional economy and employment and provide more gas.
“Gas will be crucial to the energy transition, allowing the integration of greater levels of renewable energy here and overseas, and a vital part of Shell’s strategy to provide more and cleaner energy solutions to supply the world’s energy needs,” Nunan said.
