Bundaberg Port gas pipeline construction complete

Construction of pipeline along the entire 28 km of the major infrastructure project has now been completed.

Pressure testing of the pipeline is also complete and pipeline marker posts have also been installed.

Some work remains to be completed before the pipeline can be commissioned, including the installation of main line valves and offtakes along the pipeline.

A gas meter measurement station to connect the US$70 million Knauf Plasterboard facility to the pipeline also needs to be installed.

The project has already proven to be a major economic boost for the broader Bundaberg region, with local workers making up about 60% of the total workforce throughout the project.

And importantly, the pipeline is expected to create further economic benefits in the future as more customers connect to it over the coming years.

"We have deliberately built the pipeline to ensure it is able to meet increased demand from potential new business and industry in the future – and therefore assist in creating much needed further new jobs in the region," Australian Gas Networks Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Staniford, said on 28 December.

"We will be talking to other businesses in the region to identify those that would benefit from connecting to the pipeline," he said.

"The project has been a real boon for the region, which like other parts of Australia has experienced its fair share of difficult economic times, including employment opportunities.

"For a project like this to maintain a 60% local workforce has been great for the entire community as it has provided much needed employment and career opportunities in the area."

The much-anticipated project became a reality late last year when the Queensland Government entered into a development agreement with AGN for the delivery and operation of the pipeline.

One of its key functions will be supporting the development of the new AUS$70 million Knauf Plasterboard facility.

Currently under construction, the plant has created up to 200 jobs during its development and about 55 new positions when operational.

"AGN is delighted to be playing an integral role in delivering such a significant infrastructure project to the broader Bundaberg region," Staniford said.

“The project is on track for completion and commencement of gas supply by February [2017]."

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/06012017/bundaberg-port-gas-pipeline-construction-complete/