Value of gas research in South Australia
CSIRO’s GISERA conducts independent scientific research to help communities, industry and government make decisions about gas development.
GISERA recently completed studies into conventional onshore gas in the Limestone Coast of South Australia.
This region has a diverse local economy supported by livestock, agriculture, wineries, forestry and timber milling, pulp and paper milling, and food manufacturing.
Currently, importing interstate gas increases costs for industries and businesses competing in a global marketplace.
While some can switch energy types, others depend on gas.
This research investigates the benefits of making local gas available to local industries.
The potential economic benefits over the coming decade were explored in four scenarios.
Diversified energy mix – Gas development is slow, while economic diversity grows. By 2030, an additional $132 million in local product, and 429 extra jobs.
Gas and general industrial expansion – Gas development is strong, cheaper gas is available locally, while economic diversity grows. By 2030, an additional $150 million in local product, and 497 extra jobs.
Gas supply chain expansion – Gas development is strong but other industries struggle to secure energy. By 2030, an additional $35 million in local product, and 32 extra jobs.
Business as usual – Gas development is slow, and economic diversity is reduced. By 2030, an additional $24 million in local product, and 13 jobs are lost.
Local manufacturers and other stakeholders preferred scenario 2.
Enabling local businesses to access locally extracted gas through changes to the gas transport infrastructure would help realise regional economic benefits.
To find out more go to www.gisera.csiro.au
Animation of value of gas research in south east South Australia – GISERA video