INPEX Holdings Inc. announced that its subsidiary INPEX Browse, Ltd. (INPEX) and joint venture partner Total welcome the signing of a Project Facilitation Agreement (PFA) with the Northern Territory Government, Managing Director of INPEX, Jiro Okada, said in Darwin Wednesday.
Through the PFA the Northern Territory Government is demonstrating support for a potential
LNG development at Middle Arm in Darwin and INPEX is undertaking a range of studies to
assess the viability of this option in comparison to other options also being assessed.
"Our preferred option for an LNG plant is on the Maret Islands in the Kimberley, closer to the
Ichthys field," he said, INPEX has undertaken a significant range of environmental and
engineering studies since 2004 that have demonstrated the strong technical viability of the
Marets option.
"We continue to have a good working relationship with the West Australian Government," Okada said and "continue to progress the option of developing an LNG plant in Western
Australia."
"However, the Joint Venture must explore all realistic options," he said.
"The Northern Territory Government has clearly demonstrated that Darwin offers an
alternative site that could be developed within a reliable time frame. We are also impressed
with the business capabilities and infrastructure available in the Territory.
"We are pleased to be discussing this opportunity with the Northern Territory Government,"
he said and the signing of this Project Facilitation Agreement means we are taking a serious
look at Darwin."
Okada said INPEX had been considering Darwin as an option for an LNG plant since
2004. The construction of a two train, more than 8 mtpa LNG plant in Darwin would be a significant project undertaking and would deliver considerable economic benefit and jobs for the Territory and Northern Australia.
"We will work closely with Territory business to maximize opportunities for local industry and
labor to participate in the project," he said.
Okada said INPEX had commissioned environmental, economic and engineering studies
to examine all aspects of locating LNG facilities on Middle Arm, in Darwin.
"We will consult widely with government, business and other key stakeholders before the
Joint Venture makes a decision later this year on the best location for the onshore LNG
plant," he said.
