New regulations for the petroleum and geothermal industries come into effect this week, giving Western Australia one of the most stringent well integrity and resource management regimes in the nation.
Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion said the changes would ensure strong oversight for the emerging shale and tight gas industry.
“While production of natural gas from shale and tight rocks is still in the early stages, with significant commercial projects likely to be five to 10 years away, it is important that the legislative framework is place,” Mr Marmion said.
“The State Government wants to reassure all West Australians there is strong regulation to ensure best practices are implemented.”
The regulations stipulate mandatory well and field management plans, including baseline water quality monitoring before drilling and continued monitoring during and after completion.
“These comprehensive regulations will minimise any risk of aquifer contamination and should help maximise community confidence in the responsible development of the gas industry,” the Minister said.
Before drilling programs are approved, the Department of Mines and Petroleum assesses applications to ensure they comply with State laws protecting public health, the environment and water resources.
Any application which is likely to have a significant impact on the environment must be referred to the Environmental Protection Authority for further assessment.
All companies proposing to conduct hydraulic fracturing must submit a complete list of chemicals to be used, for publication on the DMP website.
“The department will assess all projects on a site-by-site, project-by-project basis with safety and environment auditors conducting inspections to check compliance,” Mr Marmion said.
“I am confident West Australians will benefit from the shale gas industry, with jobs and local community opportunities flowing from the production of this lower-carbon energy source.”
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