Origin Energy Sells Leg In Beetaloo Basin Project, But Will Continue Fracking In Other States
“If Origin was serious about its climate targets and its environmental responsibilities, it would abandon these projects too.”
Origin Energy has wiped its hands clean from a controversial fracking project in the Beetaloo Basin, but will still receive a royalty payment if production goes ahead without its name attached.
The natural gas giant announced on Monday that it will fully divest from its gas exploration plans in the Northern Territory after more than a decade of opposition and campaigning from Traditional Owners and environmental activists.
However, the decision isn’t one of ethics, but rather of money — the investment will be acquired by Tamboran Resources for $60 million, a company that refused to show up and give evidence at a parliamentary committee looking into Beetaloo Basin drilling in April.
“We’ve been telling Origin we don’t want fracking on our land that would destroy our aquifers, cultural heritage, and contribute to climate change,” said Yanyuwa and Garawa man Nicholas Fitzpatrick through GetUp.
“This fight won’t stop here. We don’t want Tamboran coming in here and fracking our country. They need to respect our demands and end fracking in the Beetaloo.”
Lock the Gate Alliance said Origin’s decision reflected the broader financial shift away from fossil fuel projects, but expressed concern over the company’s other fossil fuel exploration projects.
“Traditional Owners have fought Origin every step of the way saying they don’t consent to the fracking project that destroys cultural heritage, water and the climate,” said National Coordinator Ellen Roberts in a statement. “They have been joined in this fierce opposition by pastoralists and communities all across the country.”
“But it’s extremely disappointing that Origin plans to proceed with its APLNG project, which includes plans to drill 7700 new coal seam gas wells north of Roma and in Queensland’s Central Highlands, including on the border of the world-renowned Carnarvon National Park,” she said.
“If Origin was serious about its climate targets and its environmental responsibilities, it would abandon these projects too.”