Cooper Energy Limited has provided an update on the Sole Gas Project and, in particular, the upgrade to the Orbost Gas Processing (OGP) Plant which is located in East Gippsland – a region currently subject to bushfires. APA Group is completing the plant upgrade works to process gas from the Sole gas field.
In a statement released today, Cooper Energy begins by stating that their foremost priority is the safety of their people, the staff and contractors working at the OGP plant and the local communities in which they operate.
The Company notes that there is no Cooper Energy personnel in the bushfire affected areas.
APA has advised that its non-essential personnel were evacuated from the area and those remaining are safe.
As of Monday 6 January 2020, the OGP plant has not been impacted by the fires and power is available on site.
The OGP Plant is also equipped with fire protection and fighting facilities.
Resumption of work on-site and impact on schedule
According to APA, remobilisation of the workforce to site and the resumption of commissioning work remains subject to assurances of safety and adequate supplies.
It estimates the impact of the bushfires, to date, is for a delay of approximately two weeks to the schedule (announced to the ASX on 10 December 2019).
This estimate is subject to ongoing developments, including the ability to access and use roads safely.
Cooper Energy is expected to provide any further updates on commissioning milestones.
Condolences, gratitude and commitment to recovery
Cooper Energy extended its condolences to the people and communities who have experienced loss due to the fires and expressed its deepest gratitude to those who have been fighting to protect lives and property and who are continuing to do so.
As a participant in the Orbost and East Gippsland community, the Company says that it is committed to, and will be contributing to, the region’s recovery and rebuilding in both the near and longer terms.
Cooper Energy will soon make donations to the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund and to the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry to fund redeemable vouchers for use by residents in need.
It is also consulting with local authorities on how additional financial and other support is best directed for the recovery of the community and the local economy.
Photo taken during the construction of the Orbost Gas Processing Plant (July 2019), image credit: AGA Group.
