Australia has granted final approval for Woodside to operate the North West Shelf liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant until 2070, imposing 48 conditions aimed at minimizing its environmental impact. This decision, announced on Friday, concludes a seven-year approval process marked by appeals and opposition from environmental groups concerned about the impact on ancient rock art and climate change efforts. Environment Minister Murray Watt stated that the conditions are designed to protect the nearby Murujuga rock art, which is culturally significant and estimated to be up to 50,000 years old.
The approval allows the plant, which was set to lose its license in 2030, to continue operating as a major energy supplier, particularly for Japan. However, critics argue that the extension represents a setback in Australia’s climate goals, with the plant expected to generate approximately 4.3 billion metric tons of carbon emissions over its lifespan. Environmental organizations have labeled the facility a “carbon bomb,” arguing that the measures in place are insufficient to prevent climate damage. The extension also lays the groundwork for Woodside to develop new gas supplies, including the Browse offshore project, Australia’s largest untapped gas resource.