Australian energy company Senex Energy has announced the imminent flow of first gas from its A$1-billion Atlas natural gasfield expansion, following the official inauguration of its Surat Basin facility in Queensland on Sunday.
The event was attended by prominent shareholders, including Posco International CEO Kyein Lee and Hancock Prospecting Executive Chairperson Gina Rinehart, alongside representatives from government and the Wandoan community.
The Atlas expansion is a key achievement for Senex, particularly as the Australian Energy Market Operator warns of potential gas supply shortfalls in the coming years.
The project is expected to significantly bolster the east coast market with a reliable gas supply.
Senex CEO Darren Stevenson emphasized the project’s importance, stating, “The expansion of the Atlas and Roma North gas developments will deliver 60 petajoules per year, fulfilling our commitment to becoming a significant east coast natural gas producer.”
Stevenson credited Senex’s founding CEO Ian Davies for envisioning the ambitious transformation of the company. “Today, I’m proud to carry that vision into reality,” he said.
Key milestones achieved in the Atlas expansion include:
- Drilling over 160 wells.
- Constructing a 56-kilometer pipeline connecting Atlas to the Reedy Creek facility.
- Completing the first stage of the processing facility, with gas flow and commissioning now underway.
Consumers are expected to benefit from the new gas supply as early as 2025. Stevenson highlighted the broader impact, stating, “This is welcome news for households and manufacturers, as Senex Energy delivers on its promise to provide more reliable natural gas, ensuring economic growth and energy security.”
