|
Established in 2015, Energy Club NT has built a strong legacy providing a premium networking and business platform connecting the energy industry across Northern Australia. The Northern Territory (NT) is well on its way to becoming global energy hub and we will continue to focus on supporting investment attraction, project development, research and collaboration across the industry.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented challenges for the entire global community and significant disruption to our day to day livelihoods. I believe the energy industry has responded incredibly effectively with a cooperative approach working closely with governments and communities. Throughout this time, the industry demonstrated resilience and maintained safe and secure energy supply to support hospitals, emergency services and Australian households as well as ensuring communities and employees on the front line were protected. I have worked closely with many businesses across our membership demographic to provide support where possible and ensure relevant information was available through our communication channels.
The NT now supports four LNG trains from Darwin including the INPEX operated Ichthys LNG project, Darwin LNG and Prelude FLNG facility with significant opportunity for additional processing facilities to be developed over the coming decade. These major projects have enhanced the growth of expertise in the local service and supply chain and infrastructure required to ensure our jurisdiction is well positioned for future industry development.
The Northern Territory has also seen substantial interest in diversifying the energy mix with both hydrogen and innovative alternative energy projects providing new opportunity for investment. The energy industry is certainly evolving, as are many of our traditional energy stakeholders, bringing exciting new ventures. Now is the time to embrace the coexistence of gas and alternative energies as we move towards a new energy future with the Northern Territory very well placed to be a major player across this diverse new scenario.
The opportunity to visit regional centres outside of Darwin will inspire new initiative planning as we consider how new projects will impact regional businesses and our ability to assist with education and engagement. Our regional activity has included sponsorship of the AGES conference in Alice Springs and also facilitated business sessions with Origin in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek.
On the conference circuit participation both virtually and in person has continued and provided valuable forums for industry insight and connecting with our membership and potential new stakeholders across the country. Energy Club NT was also part of the annual Facing North delegation in Canberra taking the opportunity to join a strong team of representatives from the Territory to meet with Federal politicians and bureaucrats showcasing the unique opportunities in our back yard that can contribute to strong economic growth and stability for Australia.
I am very optimistic about the future and look forward to continuing to support the world class projects and stakeholder in our region and look forward to new developments for the wider energy industry and sub-sectors. It is imperative we attract investment to the Territory and I believe the energy industry will continue to play a significant role in building our economy.
As Founder and CEO of Energy Club NT, I’m committed to the delivery of our vision, mission and values – everyday, with every decision.
Sonia Harvey, Founder and CEO