NT regulator proposes tighter emission limits for Santos and Inpex gas plants

Following an investigation into Inpex’s substantial under-reporting of toxic emissions, including the carcinogen benzene, the Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority released a review that recommends tightening the environmental licences of both Inpex and Santos. The recommendations call for stricter pollution limits, limits on hot venting, and the requirement for continuous emissions monitoring, as well as higher standards for pollution-control equipment and regular audits.

The review also notes previous problems at Santos’s Darwin LNG plant, such as a leaking tank that released large volumes of methane and frequent flaring. NTEPA chair Paul Vogel emphasized the need for a "world-class regulatory regime" given the facilities’ close location to Darwin and potential expansion. Environment Centre NT campaigner Bree Ahrens welcomed the move but warned that gaps remain, particularly around flaring limits and the operational reliability of acid-gas incinerators.

Inpex senior vice-president Bill Townsend said the company is working with the Department of Lands, Planning and Environment to assess the impact of the new requirements, while Santos has been contacted for comment. Full implementation could take up to a year if both companies accept the 23 recommendations.