Boost to energy security as WA’s newest gas pipeline opens

  • APA Group launches Northern Goldfields Interconnect pipeline in Mid West region
  • Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas pipeline now connected to Goldfields Gas pipeline

Minister for Energy Bill Johnston today officially opened APA Group’s Northern Goldfields Interconnect (NGI) pipeline that will provide greater energy security for Western Australia’s resources sector.

The new 580 kilometre buried pipeline connects the Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas pipeline. Starting in Ambania – 50 kilometres east of Geraldton, to the Goldfields Gas pipeline – 40 kilometres south of Leinster.

NGI will provide better access to existing and new natural gas production regions and gas storage infrastructure, especially in the emerging Perth Basin.

It also strengthens APA’s presence in Western Australia, creating an interconnected gas pipeline system, covering 2,690 kilometres across the Mid West region.

As stated by Energy Minister Bill Johnston:

“Congratulations to APA and everyone else involved with the construction of the Northern Goldfields Interconnect pipeline.

“Projects like this play a valuable role in helping to drive economic diversification, and this pipeline provides a platform for growth opportunities throughout the Mid West and Goldfields.

“The $460 million project has made a significant boost to regional employment – at its peak there were 520 construction workers.

“The Cook Government is supportive of proponents that bring additional gas supply to market, especially as new supply is critical to meet demand.”

As stated by APA CEO and Managing Director Adam Watson:

“This infrastructure is the missing link in WA’s gas network. For years, an interconnected gas grid on the east coast has helped manage supply and demand challenges across key markets. With the completion of the NGI, linking WA’s two major north-south gas pipelines, APA will ensure greater flexibility and security to meet the State’s long-term energy needs.

“The NGI demonstrates we are backing WA’s resources sector. We are investing ahead of demand, supporting the Government’s long-term growth plans in areas like critical minerals, and providing confidence to project owners that reliable energy is available to bring new projects to market.”

/Public Release. View in full here.