Research lab positions WA as global energy leader

Industry partners and The University of Western Australia have been commended by Premier Mark McGowan for a joint research laboratory that is set to stimulate the economy, create more jobs and position Western Australia as a global energy hub.

McGowan announced the opening of the centre for Long Subsea Tiebacks laboratory at UWA, while attending the Resources Technology Showcase this week.

The centre will focus on ground-breaking long subsea tieback discoveries that will enhance the industry’s understanding of hostile deep-sea conditions – creating a new oil and gas discovery with an existing production facility.

The development of new long subsea tieback technology will help 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 $600,000 per annum.

McGowan said shifting more oil and gas projects online in WA means more jobs for Western Australians.

“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,” he said.

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

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.

Chevron managing director Al Williams said the company was proud to be a partner in this “important initiative”.

“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,” Williams said.

“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.”

Woodside chief executive officer Peter Coleman said the centre for Long Subsea Tiebacks would drive research into new subsea engineering technologies for offshore oil and gas production.

“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,” Coleman said.

UWA vice-chancellor professor Dawn Freshwater added, “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.”

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