Vopak’s Avalon gas terminal plans gain momentum

A Dutch multinational’s plans for a floating gas terminal off Avalon are pushing on, as environmentalists prepare to double their efforts in opposition.

Plans for a floating gas terminal off the coast of Avalon have moved forward.

Dutch fuel storage company Vopak last year announced it would investigate the prospect of a LNG import terminal in Port Phillip Bay, with a subsea pipeline to the shore.

The multinational confirmed it will hold sessions in Wyndham, Portarlington and Corio to gauge community concerns this week.

According to the project’s website, the feasibility and environment impact studies are being finalised for referral to the state minister in the second half of this year.

It’s anticipated the project could be operational by 2026 if approved.

The project is the second of its kind in the region, with another floating terminal proposed by Viva Energy off Refinery Pier in Corio Bay.

Vopak wants to build a gas ternimal near Avalon

Under the plans, the terminals would regasify imported LNG from ships and pump it through pipelines to the shore.

Geelong Renewables Not Gas spokesman Darcy Dunn said the group, who oppose the Viva proposal, hold many of the same concerns about the Vopak plans.

“The only difference between the Viva and Vopak projects is location,” he said.

“Concerns around climate change, damage to the marine environment and safety are unchanged.

We’re calling for it to be rejected by the government in lieu of increased home energy upgrades, electrification and renewable energy projects.”

A Vopak spokesman said the floating unit could store around enough gas to meet a week of winter supply in Victoria when fully operational.

“Vopak is committed to minimising safety and environmental impacts of its Victoria Energy Terminal project, she said.

“In consultation with state and federal government and stakeholders, we have spent significant time investigating sites for mooring and infrastructure, taking into careful consideration safety and environmental impacts.

“Our mooring site was selected to minimise environmental impacts, and the development of the berth and channel approach require no dredging.”

As part of the consultation process, the company will hold community consultation sessions at the Portarlington Rotunda between 9am-3pm on Friday, and Corio Village Shopping Centre on Sunday between 9am-1pm.

Originally published as Vopak’s Avalon gas terminal plans gain momentum