Busy year expected for gas

WA’S gas industry is expecting a very busy year.

Australian Gas Association industry development manager David Parker said the industry had a number of key activities either underway or scheduled for 2000 including the sale and public float of AlintaGas.

Liquefied natural gas power infrastructure is being developed in WA’s West Kimberley region to replace outdated diesel power generating capacity. This will help reduce WA’s greenhouse gas emissions.

A feasibility study is being undertaken to assess the viability of natural gas supply into the wider South West region of WA.

A further assessment of gas market opportunities for energy intensive heavy industries such as mineral processing and steel production is also planned for 2000.

According to forecasts from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics, major metals markets such as steel, nickel and aluminium are expected to record increased prices and rising demand, which may well translate into increased demand for gas.