Senex announces expansion of Roma North gas project in Australia

Oil and gas company Senex Energy has announced the final investment decision (FID) on expanding natural gas production at Roma North project in Queensland by 50% to 24 terra joule/day (TJ/d).

Gas pipeline operator Jemena has revealed that it plans to construct and fund the Roma North compression facility expansion.

The expansion is expected to become operational in the first quarter of FY22.

Senex Energy managing director and CEO Ian Davies said: “This investment follows strong project execution and natural gas production performance at Roma North, with reservoir performance and well availability continuing to excel.

“Senex and Jemena have proven ability to partner to efficiently deliver natural gas projects, with the Roma North expansion representing our first investment to accelerate development of Senex’s significant Surat Basin natural gas reserves.

“Senex is committed to contributing to Australia’s gas-fired recovery from the Covid-19 recession, with this Roma North expansion project the first example of our high-quality investment opportunities.”

Under the terms of the Roma North agreement, Jemena will procure and install two additional compression units to increase capacity to 24TJ/d.

Senex said it will drill about 15 additional natural gas wells, starting late next year, as well as install gas and water gathering systems. It will also expand the existing water infrastructure of Roma North.

In May, Senex Energy signed an agreement with Gladstone Liquefied Natural Gas (GLNG) to supply natural gas from the Roma North processing facility in Australia’s western Surat Basin to the domestic market.

In May last year, Senex Energy commissioned the Roma North natural gas processing facility.