The Western Australian Energy Research Alliance is a joint venture between CSIRO, Curtin University and The University of WA. It provides research and technology solutions for the many exploration and production challenges facing the oil and gas industry.
“WAERA has a remarkable opportunity to create something special here in WA,” Martin said.
“It has the potential to become one of the world’s leading centres of oil and gas research and technology development and add real value to the state’s petroleum sector. Through the combined talents of the three Alliance partners we can also really make a difference to the global energy industry.”
Acting chief executive Robert Johnson said WAERA’s main goal during its first phase of development was to enhance the industry’s sustainability. It aimed to develop new technologies to maximise recovery of liquids from existing and new reservoirs and to commercialise currently uneconomic gas resources.
WAERA has received a grant of $20 million over five years from the WA Government to increase the number of specialist researchers available to tackle these issues.
Johnson said WA had an ongoing need for technology solutions in areas such as subsea engineering, subsurface seismic exploration and drilling, production technology and processing systems.
“By providing a single entry point to Australia’s leading researchers, the Alliance is delivering better outcomes to industry and reducing competition for funds between Alliance partners,” Johnson said.
“A recruitment process is now underway that will eventually see the appointment of a full-time CEO as well as an estimated 50 additional researchers joining WAERA in the years ahead."
Other WAERA Board members are CSIRO Petroleum chief Dr Beverly Ronalds, Curtin University pro-vice chancellor Professor Barney Glover, UWA pro-vice chancellor Professor Doug McEachern, Dave Agostini (independent), and Robert Johnson.
A high-level Industry Advisory Group - including representatives from WA’s leading oil and gas companies - will help guide research programs and provide advice to the Board. The first meeting of the IAG was held on 16 December.
Johnson said the IAG would help guide the Alliance toward becoming an internationally valued and competitive research resource, enhancing the economic benefits of the petroleum industry to WA and the nation.
“The IAG provides the opportunity for research, government and industry leaders to discuss the strategic research, technology issues facing the sector in WA.
“The outcomes will have global implications for an industry always looking for ways to improve efficiencies and sustainability.”
