Zinfra — specialist Australian infrastructure service provider to the energy industry — has successfully completed a one kilometre horizontal directional drill at the company’s Port Kembla Pipeline Project.
Zinfra Managing Director Peter Iancov said this achievement heralds a new era in Australia’s energy supply chain.
In partnership with Jemena and Squadron Energy, the project will establish a 12 kilometre gas transmission pipeline connecting Squadron Energy’s Port Kembla Energy Terminal to Jemena’s existing Eastern Gas Pipeline.
Upon completion, the infrastructure will be capable of supplying more than 70 per cent of New South Wales’ gas requirements.
This will bring new, reliable energy sources to the market and avert possible supply shortages.
The pipe being used to construct the lateral has undergone additional testing to give it the best possible chance of being hydrogen capable, meaning it will be well-placed to deliver green hydrogen in the event it becomes commercially available.
Zinfra Operations Manager Justin Anderson says in anticipation of the green energy revolution, Zinfra has integrated the internationally recognised ASME B31.12 standard for Hydrogen Pipelines into the design.
“We have partnered with a specialist supplier in Greece to secure advanced-tested pipes capable of handling 100 per cent hydrogen and procured valves and fittings in line with the latest research, maximising their potential compatibility with hydrogen transport,” said Anderson.
Construction of the pipeline began in late 2022 and is projected to be completed by year-end 2023.