Environment groups welcome investor retreat from ‘precarious’ Viva Energy gas terminal in Geelong
Victoria’s leading state and local environment groups have today welcomed news that Viva Energy has delayed a final investment decision for its proposed LNG import terminal in Geelong as they were unable to find a buyer amid deepening uncertainty over the project’s future.
Environment Victoria, ACF Geelong and Geelong Sustainability said the delay only adds to the precariousness of the project, given that navigational studies and environmental monitoring still haven’t been completed, and the time available for dredging is narrowing.
Jane Spence, CEO of Geelong Sustainability, said:
“Viva’s delayed decision highlights the uncertainty around locking in gas infrastructure for decades – it does not make economic sense. Geelong Sustainability calls for urgent investment in renewable energy and transmission infrastructure that will deliver clean and affordable power for Geelong and Victoria.”
Lauren Dillon, Spokesperson for ACF Geelong, said:
“A rushed project is a risky project. The 2011 dredging disaster in Gladstone, Queensland, showed us what happens when a dredging project is underestimated and rushed. We don’t want those mistakes repeated here, and that means taking the time to properly scrutinise all of the risks.”
Dr Kat Lucas-Healey, Senior Climate and Energy Advisor from Environment Victoria, said:
“Importing LNG creates massive amounts of climate pollution, with methane leaked and burnt all the way along the supply chain. Gas is a disaster for the climate, and Viva Energy’s proposed terminal makes a mockery of Victoria’s climate targets.”