China Proposes Joint Exploration of Spratly Islands
Background China’s ambassador in Manila says his country is willing to negotiate partnerships with the Philippines and other claimants in disputed parts of the South China Sea. The announcement, made on the eve of Philippine President Benigno Aquino’s first state visit to China, could remove a significant regional flashpoint, promote good order along major strategic lines of communication and ensure future energy security. ...
Kimberley Proposed as Possible Tidal Energy Site
Background Plans to build a 100 megawatt tidal station in the Kimberley region of north-west Australia have been revived, almost ten years after the project failed due to cost blow-outs. In addition to providing a clean source of energy, the station has the potential to increase economic and social opportunities in the region. Comment In...
Deal Highlights Challenges and Opportunities for Australian LNG
Background In late July, troubled Japanese utility, Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) concluded a heads of agreement deal with American oil and gas super-major Chevron. In one of Australia’s largest resource contracts, TEPCO has agreed to purchase Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) worth $70 billion from Chevron’s proposed Wheatstone project in the Pilbara, over the next...
Japan’s Energy Transition Provides Opportunities for Australia
Background In the aftermath of Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear emergency, the country’s largest electricity company has announced a greater emphasis on liquefied natural gas (LNG), providing joint venture opportunities for Australia and Japan. Comment The newly appointed president of Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO), Toshio Nishizawa, has forecast greater Japanese reliance on LNG, following the continuing...
Korea has Chance for Advanced Bio-Fuel Technology
Background The South Korean Government has funded a new 670 million won (₩) ($587,600) “Waste-to-Energy” plant near Seoul. The first plant of its kind, it is capable of supplying 6,500 cubic metres of bio-gas to the public transport fleet. The plant, opened on 16 June 2011, is the latest in a series of projects that...
Australia to be an Energy Superpower
Background The Environmental Protection Agency’s approval of the Wheatstone project will augment Australia’s position as a global liquefied natural gas (LNG) giant. Comment Australia’s attempts to replace Qatar as the world’s largest LNG exporter have been bolstered by last week’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approval of the 25 million tonnes per year Wheatstone LNG project,...
Legislation Required in Fracking Debate
Background Hydraulic fracturing has gained prominence in Europe and America in recent weeks, with reports linking the process to earthquakes, environmental damage and illnesses. Co-ordinated State and Federal legislation is required to reconcile community concerns and development of the emerging shale hydrocarbon industry. Comment Australian mining companies and projects are involved in a growing international...
Australia’s Role in the Nuclear Renaissance
Background The announcements, made in late May, by the Swiss and German Governments that they will phase out nuclear power, are premature. Australia has the ability to be the voice of reason in the international nuclear debate and to advocate the merits of atomic energy for developing nations. Comment Civil nuclear power has, until recently,...