Cooper in talks to buy Orbost gas plant from APA

Australian gas producer Cooper Energy on December 1 said it is exploring the option of buying the Orbost gas processing plant from energy infrastructure company APA. The plant's performance has been impaired by unexplained foaming in the absorber section of the sulphur recovery unit and it has not been able to reach nameplate capacity.

The Orbost plant processes gas from Cooper’s Sole gas field offshore Victoria for supply to customers in south-east Australia. 

The company said that it is in regular discussions with APA regarding current and long-term arrangements for the processing of gas from the Sole gas field through the plant, noting that the transition agreement with APA expires in May 2022.

“Cooper Energy is considering a range of options on the basis that the plant has not yet reached nameplate capacity. Options for the long-term arrangements may include amendments to the gas processing agreement or an acquisition of the plant,” the company said.

“Should any material developments occur, and in line with continuous disclosure obligations, Cooper Energy will provide updates on the long-term processing arrangements for its Sole gas,” it added.