Action item 5.2
Progress
50% Complete.
Government approval for consultation on draft policy, guideline, framework, Bill.
That the Government:
- implements a mandatory program for regular monitoring by gas companies of decommissioned onshore shale gas wells (including exploration wells), with the results from the monitoring to be publicly reported in real-time. If the performance of a decommissioned well is determined to be acceptable to the regulator then the gas company may apply for relinquishment of the well to the Government; and
- implements a program for the ongoing monitoring of all orphan wells.
Stage 3.
To be completed by November 2022.
Action item update
Implementation progress
The NT Government has commissioned CSIRO/ Gas Industry Social and Environment Research Alliance (GISERA) to evaluate options for the long-term monitoring of decommissioned wells in the Northern Territory. Findings will inform a process for well relinquishment and an ongoing monitoring program.
The program will be made enforceable via legislation.
The CSIRO/GISERA report has been finalised and will be published in May 2022. Findings will inform a process for well relinquishment and an ongoing monitoring program to be developed by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade.
Two petroleum engineers have been employed and commenced analysis of all suspended and abandoned wells, which includes site visits and inspections.