New research lab positions WA as global energy hub leader and creates jobs

  • New research laboratory will stimulate the economy and create jobs
  • Positioning WA as a global energy hub leader
  • Potential to unlock the economic viability of WA LNG assets 
  • Premier Mark McGowan has praised industry partners and The University of Western Australia (UWA) for a joint research laboratory that will position Western Australia as a global energy hub leader, stimulating the economy and creating jobs.

    The Premier announced the opening of the Centre for Long Subsea Tiebacks laboratory located at UWA, while attending the Resources Technology Showcase today. 

    The centre will focus on groundbreaking long subsea ‘tieback’ discoveries that will enhance industry’s understanding of hostile deep-sea conditions. Subsea tiebacks are a ‘connection’ between a new oil and gas discovery with an existing production facility.

    The development of new long subsea tieback technology helps to unlock the economic viability of WA gas fields that have not yet been commercialised due to their location.

    The centre is a key focus area for the LNG Jobs Taskforce and is jointly funded by Chevron and Woodside with approximately AUD$600,000 per annum.

    Building an international reputation as a global energy hub for long subsea tiebacks will enhance jobs through the deployment of expertise and technology, as well as grow jobs and career opportunities in WA.

    The new centre will provide leading research and technology in one place. It will be highly integrated into industry and working on real-world challenges and solutions for the LNG sector.

    The State Government is partnering to deliver technology solutions for industry challenges that both create jobs and position Western Australia as a global leader in delivering sustainable development goals.

    As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:

    “Bringing more oil and gas projects online in WA means more jobs for Western Australians – and that’s my Government’s number one priority.

    “The new centre at UWA will unlock the technology to do this, aligning with our strategic vision to strengthen and diversify the WA economy, and establish our State as a global energy hub leader.

    “It’s incredibly important that we work together as a team – industry, education and Government – to create long-term jobs for all Western Australians.”

    As stated by Chevron Managing Director Al Williams:

    “Chevron is proud to partner on this important initiative to advance technology, research and innovation in subsea tiebacks.

    “Greater industry collaboration such as through the Centre for Long Subsea Tiebacks is a key part of strengthening our local capability and delivering significant benefits across local jobs and local content.

    “With effective collaboration between industry and government, Perth can maximise the potential of its local industry and continue to grow as a global petroleum hub.”

    As stated by Woodside Chief Executive Officer Peter Coleman:

    “The Centre for Long Subsea Tiebacks will drive research into new subsea engineering technologies for offshore oil and gas production and maintain WA’s competitiveness in the LNG market.

    “Woodside has been in partnership with UWA since 2005 and the opening of this research laboratory demonstrates our commitment to building Perth as a centre for excellence in LNG technology and skills.

    “We believe this partnership will play a crucial role in unlocking new gas resources off Western Australia’s north coast in support of our growth activities.”

    As stated by UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater:

    “This collaborative research centre is a significant project that fulfils our aim of serving the community and improving people’s lives.

    “Not only will it enhance Perth and WA as a centre of offshore engineering excellence, it aligns with UWA’s plans to expand and strengthen global partnerships, as we work to become a pivotal knowledge hub for the Indian Ocean Rim region.”

    /Public Release. View in full here.