The Tasmanian Government today released its Future Gas Strategy as a draft for public consultation which outlines a vision of the future of gas in Tasmania, including natural gas, LPG, renewable gases and the opportunity for increased electrification.
By outlining the Government’s vision for the future of gas over the next 20-30 years, the Strategy is intended to help gas market participants make informed choices and investment decisions at a time when the industry is facing a period of rapid transition.
The Government recognises that as the Australian market transitions away from fossil fuel gas the Tasmanian gas network will decarbonise. The Government is committed to ensuring gas supply is secure and affordable throughout this transition and to not put in place policies and regulations that might undermine the investment needed during this transition.
Natural gas should remain available to Tasmanian users while renewable alternatives mature, as a premature departure from natural gas could undermine economic growth and force users back to dirtier fuels. Nonetheless, there are opportunities to decarbonise Tasmania’s gas network and at the same time improve our energy security by reducing reliance on imports from the mainland.
The Government is actively supporting the development of renewable gases. We will support future industries like hydrogen and bioenergy that capitalise on Tasmania’s unparalleled wind, water and biomass resources.
Locally-made renewable gases will support local jobs, increase energy security and drive down emissions. As just one example of the Government’s focus, we are progressing investment in a Green Hydrogen Hub at Bell Bay, in partnership with the Federal Government and industry.
The Future Gas Strategy will provide much needed certainty to Tasmanian gas users. By making the Government’s vision clear, households, businesses and industry are better placed to make sensible decisions about their future energy use.
Australian gas markets are experiencing a period of rapid transition, and to better understand the future role gas will play in Tasmania’s energy mix it is important that we start planning now and hear from the community and industry.
There are opportunities for community involvement in the finalisation of the Future Gas Strategy with public submissions open until January 12, 2023. Information about how to make a submission can be accessed at: https://recfit.tas.gov.au/consultation_and_community
