Premier applauds start of $11.2billion Pluto gas project

23/11/07
Premier Alan Carpenter today welcomed the official start of construction of Woodside's Pluto gas project in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
At an official ceremony on the Burrup Peninsula, Mr Carpenter thanked Woodside for its $11.2billion investment in the State, as well as Tokyo Gas and Kansai Electric for their investment in the project.
The project is expected to inject $28.6billion into WA's economy over the 30-year life of the project.
The Premier said the Pluto project was a great example of State Government and industry working together effectively.
"Woodside worked closely with the Office of Development and Approvals Coordination and the Department of Industry and Resources to get the project approved within the agreed timeline," he said.
"Woodside's commitment to the project, along with an efficient government team, led to all State and Federal approvals being completed in less than two years.
"For a project of this size, this is a great achievement."
In December last year, Woodside and the State Government reached an agreement regarding a portion of the gas from the Pluto project being committed to WA's domestic gas supply.
"Securing a steady domestic gas supply is vital with WA continually expanding thanks to a constant flow of new projects, as well as new residential developments," Mr Carpenter said.
"The successful domestic gas negotiations between Woodside and the State Government demonstrate that our domestic gas policy is achievable."
The local content of the project will be more than 50 per cent.
The Pluto project will create 3,000 jobs during construction and an ongoing workforce of 300 when completed.
Premier's office: 9222 9475