Western Australia is set to play a pivotal role in leading innovation within the emerging decommissioning supply chain, as ageing offshore oil and gas infrastructure approaches the end of its life cycle.
As sustainability becomes imperative, the Centre of Decommissioning Australia (CODA) is taking a bold step forward, leading the innovation path in the decommissioning sector.
As part of AOG Energy 2024, to be held from 13-15 march at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre, CODA’s decommissioning hub and decommissioning theatre will highlight the transformative opportunities within the decommissioning supply chain.
CODA CEO and Managing Director Dr Francis Norman will delve into Australia’s growing opportunity to become a global decommissioning leader in the traditional energy sector, due to its significant pipeline of projects and an influx of local and international investment in capability to support those decommissioning activities.
With approximately 60 per cent of projects entering decommissioning stage located in Western Australia, the region is positioned as the epicentre of industry innovation and growth.
Dr Norman said the pipeline for decommissioning work in Western Australia had advanced significantly, with Chevron last year announcing plans to decommission its oil operations on Barrow Island, aiming to halt production by 2025.
He said Woodside Energy had also secured all essential contracts for decommissioning subsea infrastructure at the Enfield, Griffin, Stybarrow, and Echo/Yodel fields, with efforts starting in late 2023.
“Australia’s potential to redefine decommissioning standards and drive forward-thinking innovation has never been greater,” Dr Norman said.
“Western Australia stands at the forefront of this movement, offering a blueprint for global best practices.
“Our involvement in AOG Energy 2024 is a testament to CODA’s commitment to not only participating in this dynamic field but leading it.
“Over the last year-and-a-half, there has been a significant increase in investments from both domestic and overseas businesses entering the decommissioning sector.
“This has not only spurred growth in the industry, but also solidified Australia’s position as a frontrunner in decommissioning, especially in the European context.
“The wave of investment has played a crucial role in enhancing our international profile, positioning Australia as a centre of distinction and innovation in the field of decommissioning.”
With the commencement of decommissioning projects, there is a heightened emphasis on recycling all materials and investigating the potential for cross-industry infrastructure sharing in the future.
Now the State had some significant decommissioning services in play, the sector is looking to what’s next and what the best practices are.
“I’m really looking forward to discussing decommissioning and future themes with experts at AOG Energy 2024.”
“The event provides the perfect platform for CODA to share its expertise and vision. Through collaborative discussions, strategic partnerships, and sharing of best practices, CODA aims to enhance the decommissioning sector’s contribution to sustainable development and economic growth.”
Register for AOG Energy 2024 here.