AGL Energy Limited (AGL) has commenced the permanent decommissioning of eight gas wells and two seismic monitoring bores in the Hunter Valley.

The decommissioning work follows AGL’s recent decision to exit the Hunter Gas Project and sell back its two Petroleum Exploration Licences in the Hunter region to the NSW Government.

AGL’s Head of Land and Approvals, Suzanne Westgate, said the work would be undertaken in accordance with the NSW Office of Coal Seam Gas’ Well Integrity Code of Practice and all other relevant legal requirements.

“The decommissioning involves the use of a rig to fill the well with cement, which is specified for this purpose, to the depth of the coal seam,” Ms Westgate said.

“The cement-filled well casing, which already has several layers of steel and cement, is cut off at least 1.5 metres below ground level and sealed with a metal plate which records data including the well name, its depth and exact location. These details also are provided to NSW government regulatory authorities for any future reference,” she said.

“The site is then rehabilitated, meeting licence conditions and giving utmost regard to environmental protection, subsoil and topsoil management, erosion control and revegetation.

“This will take around two to four weeks per well and the project will take approximately three months to complete,” Ms Westgate said.

Work will occur Monday to Friday between 7am and 6pm and Saturdays between 8am and 1pm. If local residents would like further information they can contact AGL’s 24 hour community information and complaints telephone line on 1300 799 715 or visit YourSayAGL.com.au.


About AGL

AGL is one of Australia’s leading integrated energy companies. It is taking action to responsibly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions while providing secure and affordable energy to its customers. Drawing on over 175 years of experience, AGL serves its customers throughout eastern Australia with meeting their energy requirements, including gas, electricity, solar PV and related products and services. AGL has a diverse power generation portfolio including base, peaking and intermediate generation plants, spread across traditional thermal generation as well as renewable sources including hydro, wind, solar, landfill gas and biomass.