Beetaloo Basin gas tap opened, feeding Northern Territory power grid today
The Beetaloo Basin fracked-gas pipeline was switched on, beginning to supply the Northern Territory electricity network as officials celebrate the milestone.
A gas pipeline tapping the Beetaloo Basin was turned on today, allowing fracked gas to flow into the Northern Territory’s power grid for the first time. The Country Liberal Party government presented the move as a turning point that will attract investment, generate billions in economic value and create over 13,000 jobs by 2040, according to official statements. Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro and Northern Land Council chair Matthew Ryan attended the ceremony, emphasizing benefits for native title holders in the Barkly region and nearby communities such as Elliott.
Tamboran Resources chief executive Todd Abbott affirmed the company’s commitment to delivering lasting opportunities, while economist Saul Eslake cautioned that the projected economic boost may be exaggerated. Over the weekend, the Environment Centre Northern Territory organized an anti-fracking protest in Darwin, with spokesperson Bree Ahrens demanding a ban on fracking and AI data-centre projects powered by the gas.
Why it matters
The new gas supply could reshape the NT's energy mix, economy and employment while sparking environmental debate.
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