APA Group has officially launched the Northern Goldfields Interconnect (NGI) pipeline in the Mid West region and it will provide greater energy security for Western Australia’s resources sector.

The newly opened 579 kilometre buried transmission pipeline runs from the Rosewick connection to the Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas Pipeline (DBNGP) to the Wildara connection into the Goldfields Gas Pipeline (GGP).

APA CEO and Managing Director Adam Watson said: “This infrastructure is the missing link in WA’s gas network. For years, an interconnected gas grid on the east coast has helped manage supply and demand challenges across key markets. With the completion of the NGI, linking WA’s two major north-south gas pipelines, APA will ensure greater flexibility and security to meet the state’s long-term energy needs.

“The NGI demonstrates we are backing WA’s resources sector. We are investing ahead of demand, supporting the government’s long-term growth plans in areas like critical minerals, and providing confidence to project owners that reliable energy is available to bring new projects to market.”

The NGI pipeline will work to provide better access to existing and new natural gas production regions and gas storage infrastructure — specifically in the emerging Perth Basin.

Energy Minister Bill Johnston stated that this $460 million project has significantly improved regional employment.

“At its peak, there were 520 construction works.

“Projects like this play a valuable role in helping to drive economic diversification, and this pipeline provides a platform for growth opportunities throughout the Mid West and Goldfields,” said Johnston.

APA Group’s gas infrastructure goals include achieving net zero operational emissions by 2050.