Energy Insiders - a RenewEconomy Podcast The view from inside the gas industry
May 1, 2025
Rick Wilkinson, a gas industry veteran from EnergyQuest and former key developer of Santos' GLNG, offers fascinating insights into Australia's gas market. He discusses the evolving gas demand amid rising renewable energy, the complexities of managing supply, and the challenges posed by seasonal fluctuations. Wilkinson also examines the implications of a potential Labor government on energy policy, contrasting Australia’s energy transition with Spain’s struggles. The interview reveals the critical role of gas in the future energy landscape while navigating economic uncertainties.
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Gas Demand Trends and Seasonality
- Gas demand in Australia's eastern domestic market is expected to remain flat or decline due to renewables and efficiency.
- Gas’s key role is providing firm capacity during peak demand, especially in winter when renewables dip.
Storage Limits and Gas Swapping
- Gas storage capacity in southeast Australia is limited, forcing reliance on pipelines from Queensland and the Northern Territory.
- LNG suppliers swap gas seasonally to meet winter peak demand in southern markets, supporting system reliability.
Gas Price Dynamics in Australia
- Australian gas prices have risen due to declining local supply from major basins approaching depletion.
- Despite increases, gas prices in Australia remain lower than many parts of Asia and Europe.