Another Gas Deal powering the Territory forward

26 July 2024

The Lawler Labor Government is continuing to support the industries that get the Territory working and securing our energy supply, by signing up to buy more gas from the Beetaloo Basin. 

The gas sales agreement between the Territory Government and Empire Energy, will provide competitively priced gas for the Territory’s electricity generation for years to come.

Empire Energy, which is expecting first gas from its Carpentaria Pilot Project, in the Beetaloo Basin, will supply gas to the Northern Territory from mid next year until 2035, with an opportunity to extend to 2040.

Empire Energy is working towards Final Investment Decision for the project by the end of this year.

The Carpentaria Pilot Project is targeting 25 Terajoules of gas per day, initially scaling the production in line with long term targets. Empire Energy will continue to progress its environmental approvals for the project.

The Lawler Labor Government is focused on making sure the Territory has environmentally sustainable, stable and affordable power for Territorians and local businesses.

Developing the Beetaloo Basin and boosting our on-shore gas industry will create thousands of work opportunities for Territorians and boost the economy by $17 billion.

Quotes attributed to Chief Minister Eva Lawler:

“This gas deal with Empire is another example of my team backing the industries that get the Territory working. These gas agreements will contribute to a broad gas portfolio that diversifies and secures supply while also supporting the development of the Beetaloo.

“My common sense plan will make sure the Northern Territory continues to have secure and more affordable power for years to come.”

Quotes attributed to the Minister for Mining Mark Monaghan:

“The Lawler Labor Government is backing industry and our energy supply well into the future.

“Investors are starting to make more and more moves within the Beetaloo – which supports local businesses and working opportunities.”

Quotes attributed to Empire Energy Managing Director, Alex Underwood:

"Empire has been actively pursuing production from the Beetaloo Basin since 2011, with support from the NT Government for this objective since 2018. Subject to final approvals, we anticipate being the first company to provide gas supply from the Beetaloo, commencing next year.

“This agreement comes at a critical time for the energy security of the NT. It demonstrates our commitment to providing energy for Territorians and will facilitate hundreds of millions of dollars of investment into the NT economy. The project will provide local jobs, support NT businesses, and create direct revenue streams for traditional owners and the NT Government.”

“We look forward to working with traditional owners, local communities and all Territorians to deliver this exciting project.”

Northern Territory Government