June 2020
Proposed ban on seismic surveys
The Government is proposing a ban on seismic surveys in the Taranaki coastal marine area as part of a new protection plan for Maui and Hector dolphins.
Importantly, there will be an exemption for all existing exploration and mining permits. However, PEPANZ has questioned the need for a blanket ban on new surveys, calling it "a disproportionate response to a non-existent problem."
"Seismic surveys are already strictly regulated and there is just no evidence of any permanent harm to dolphins," PEPANZ Chief Executive John Carnegie told media.
"We look forward to working with the Government on policy based on evidence and science. This is the best way to ensure we protect Maui and Hector dolphins, as well as protecting local jobs and our energy security."
The intended regulation has been notified in the Gazette and PEPANZ will prepare a submission. The deadline for comment is 21 July.
Update on Tui decommissioning
The Government has begun work on planning the decommissioning of the Tui oil field.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has now issued a Request for Information (RFI) on the Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS) website.
MBIE is interested in better understanding market capabilities, including what suppliers in the market are likely to be interested in tendering for and what information they may need when putting together a proposal.
New gas disclosure code in effect
A new industry-led disclosure code for natural gas producers has come into effect, aimed at increasing information and transparency around any gas outages.
The code was developed by PEPANZ and gas producers through an independently facilitated process. It provides for a public platform with information on unplanned and planned outages at gas production facilities and storage facilities in New Zealand.
"It’s very pleasing to see the industry showing leadership and responding to the needs of users," says PEPANZ Chief Executive John Carnegie.
The Government has also recently introduced the Gas (Information Disclosure and Penalties) Amendment Bill which provides regulation-making power to require information disclosure.
"PEPANZ supports this bill as related to outage disclosure, but we're confident the industry-led code will mean regulatory interventions won’t be needed."
Industry updates
*Maui development: OMV is preparing to start work on a $200 million campaign to extend the life of the Maui gas field.
*New OMV headquarters: OMV is also investing $15 million into new headquarters in New Plymouth, with most of this to be invested locally.
*ETS changes: Earlier this month the Government announced a new emissions cap and a new upper limit on the price of carbon. More details here.
*Apprenticeships: Financial support from the Government for apprenticeships has been announced. A total of $16,000 over two years is available, made up of $12,000 in the first year and $6,000 in the second year.
*Gas (Information Disclosure and Penalties) Amendment Bill: We are preparing a submission on this Bill which gives the Government more power to require information disclosure and impose penalties. Submissions close on 17 July.
Every month we'll be profiling different PEPANZ members, highlighting the range of skills and services in our local industry.
Member profile: Logicamms
LogiCamms provides engineering, project delivery, asset management, operations and training solutions to clients in industries including hydrocarbons, mining and minerals, water, power and transport. They work with asset owners and operators across Australia, New Zealand, PNG, the Pacific and beyond.
With over 30 years’ operational experience LogiCamms add value to their clients’ operations by reducing costs and increasing efficiencies with innovative solutions. LogiCamms are proudly mid-tier, with the size and strength to execute large contracts while preserving their hallmark agile, flexible and responsive approach.
Based in New Plymouth, the LogiCamms New Zealand team deliver projects from concept through to operations.
PO Box 25259, Wellington 6146
