In The Hague this week, Australia worked hard to minimise the legal liability of major emitters and fossil fuel exporters for their contribution to climate change.
I worked in oil & gas in commercial and engineering roles for 20 years. Since 2016 I have written for The West Australian, The Saturday Paper, RenewEconomy, Michael West, Boiling Cold and WAtoday.
Woodside and BHP have responded to the energy transition by heading in opposite directions. Here are 13 takeaways about Woodside's future. They will need some luck.
Santos wants to approve its $2.8B Dorado oil project off WA in mid-2022 but science and the law will provide hurdles to its 165 million tonnes of carbon pollution.
Andrew Forrest's Squadron Energy is pulling out of plans to frack the Kimberley for gas citing climate concerns, but the minor partner may continue the work.
If Woodside absorbs BHP's oil & gas assets new laws ensure the massive decommissioning liability falls to one of the companies, not the Australian taxpayer, unlike the Northern Endeavour.
BHP and Woodside are negotiating the complete transfer of BHP oil and gas assets in exchange for Woodside shares, but the deal is not done, indicating last-minute brinksmanship across the negotiation table.
Two Woodside offshore workers were injured when a 500kg load fell after a lifting appliance with unapproved modifications failed but Woodside reported only one injury to the safety regulator.
