Funding injection for South-West carbon reduction project

Western Australia's first on-shore carbon capture and storage (CCS) trial project will receive up to $52million to further promote the State's research in carbon emissions reduction.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore this morning joined Federal Resources and Energy Minister Martin Ferguson for the funding announcement at the ARRC centre in Bentley.

Mr Moore said the Federal Government Flagship funding would enable the Collie Hub project to move to the next phase of decision making.

"This funding will further progress pre-competitive data acquisition and analysis of the potential storage area," he said.

To ensure the community plays a critical role in the assessment and evaluation of the next phase, Mr Moore established the Lesueur Community Consultative Group (LCCG) which will report to him.

"Simon Holthouse, previous chair of the State Planning Commission and long-time local resident of Harvey, will chair the LCCG which will provide a forum for open and accurate communication between the Department of Mines and Petroleum, the Collie Hub and the wider community," he said.

"This includes involvement in the design of the project assessment, identification of issues to be addressed, monitoring and review of the trials and, project planning and development.

"These measures will ensure the project has a thorough and transparent examination before any commercial operations are considered.

"The LCCG will address any community concerns and knowledge gaps in regard to the Lesueur Strata of the Southern Perth Basin, advise on the research required to verify its suitability as a CO₂ Sequestration location and provide suggestions on preferred methods of information sharing and wider community involvement.

"The group will also ensure stakeholders are identified and engaged to ensure they have adequate opportunities to contribute to the development of data acquisition and research occurring in the Lower Lesueur."

Nominations for local members will be sought through advertisements in local papers and consultation with the Harvey and Waroona shires.

Mr Moore said that if implemented, the Collie Hub Project had the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30 per cent in the South-West and by nine per cent across the State.

He said the project would also provide a sustainable future for some of the region's most important industries, which currently provide jobs for more than 10,000 people.

The Collie Hub concept involves capturing CO₂ from emissions sources, compressing it into a liquid and pumping it deep below the earth for permanent storage. 

Initial studies have identified the Lesueur formation, north of the Kemerton industrial area, as the best potential storage site for CO₂.

"It is expected to take about four years of study and research, including detailed desktop modelling, before a final decision on the Hub can be made," Mr Moore said.

"As a joint venture between the Department of Mines and Petroleum and six other companies, this project is an excellent example of industry working together with Government."

Minister's office - 9422 3000

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