Waukivory coalbed methane project makes progress

The NSW government has released a new factsheet that provides detailed information on AGL’s application to complete the Waukivory Pilot Program and the decision-making process involved.

The information in the report clarifies many common questions often received by AGL – such as why an REF was the appropriate document for assessment, which government departments issue licences and project approvals, and the site closure and rehabilitation process once the project has been completed.

The Waukivory Pilot Program will involve hydraulically fracturing four wells in the Forbesdale area, which were originally drilled in 2012 to help AGL better understand the gas and water characteristics within the coal seams of the area. These exploration wells will now become pilot wells as the coalbed methane (CBM) project makes progress.

In response to AGL’s proposal, the Office of Coal Seam Gas (OCSG) noted that the company’s CBM activities “are not likely to significantly affect the environment and are therefore not likely to significantly affect any threatened species, populations, ecological communities or critical habitats”.

The OCSG also added it expected the CBM project to be undertaken in compliance with existing regulations, and be done so safely without causing “adverse impact”.

Following the approval of the project, AGL also produced a factsheet with more information about planned activities in the Gloucester Basin, as well as the company’s record of working with the local community and how AGL ensures local waterways are protected.

Written by Sam Dodson

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/cbm/18082014/waukivory-coalbed-methane-project-makes-progress-cbm96/