Scarborough Energy Project (AU-LNG-WEG683-P9): Shaping the Future of Australia’s LNG Industry

The Scarborough Energy Project (AU-LNG-WEG683-P9) is one of Australia’s most ambitious liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, positioning Western Australia as a global energy powerhouse. Operated by Woodside Energy, the project integrates offshore gas production with world-class onshore processing facilities to deliver up to 8 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of LNG.

As a long-term development with both domestic and international significance, the Scarborough Energy Project is designed to meet rising global demand for cleaner fuels while supporting Australia’s economy and strengthening local energy security. At Tigranix Ventures Energy Pte Ltd, we recognize the Scarborough project as a defining chapter in the evolution of the LNG sector, with ripple effects that extend across Asia-Pacific and beyond.

Project Overview

The Scarborough gas field is located in the Carnarvon Basin, approximately 375 kilometers offshore from Western Australia’s Pilbara coast. Its integration with the Pluto LNG facility near Karratha makes it a strategically efficient and economically viable LNG development.

The project comprises several major components:

• Offshore Development – A semi-submersible Floating Production Unit (FPU) to be moored in 950 meters of water, with 13 wells drilled over the project’s lifespan, including eight wells in the initial phase.
• Subsea Pipeline – An approximately 430-kilometer subsea pipeline transporting Scarborough gas to shore.
• Pluto Train 2 Expansion – A brand-new LNG train capable of processing 5 Mtpa of Scarborough gas.
• Pluto Train 1 Modifications – Upgrades to handle an additional 3 Mtpa from Scarborough.
• Integrated Remote Operations Centre (IROC) – A Perth-based hub that allows centralized operation of both offshore and onshore facilities.

Once operational, Scarborough will produce 8 Mtpa of LNG, positioning Western Australia as one of the world’s most important LNG exporters.

Project Timeline and Progress

The Scarborough Energy Project has been under active development for several years and is already more than 82% complete as of mid-2025.

Construction is progressing both offshore and onshore. Subsea systems are being installed, the FPU fabrication is advancing, and Pluto Train 2 is taking shape. First LNG production is targeted for the second half of 2026, and the project is designed to operate for more than 30 years, securing Australia’s place in the global LNG market.

Pluto Train 2 Expansion

The Pluto LNG facility, located near Karratha, is central to the Scarborough development. By adding Pluto Train 2, Woodside Energy is unlocking new LNG capacity while maximizing efficiencies from existing infrastructure.

Pluto Train 2 will process about 5 Mtpa of Scarborough gas, integrated seamlessly with existing Pluto LNG storage and export systems. This expansion reduces overall capital costs compared to building an entirely new site. Advanced technology ensures energy efficiency and lower emissions, making it a critical part of the project’s low-carbon strategy.

For further reading on LNG projects and their role in global energy, visit our Energy Projects Insights page.

Offshore Floating Production Unit (FPU)

One of the most technologically advanced aspects of the Scarborough Energy Project is the Floating Production Unit.

The FPU will be installed in 950 meters of water, designed to process and send raw gas through the 430-kilometer pipeline directly to the Pluto LNG facility. Eight wells will be drilled during the initial development, with up to 13 in total over the life of the project. This infrastructure highlights modern offshore engineering and the use of efficient production technology in challenging marine environments.

Economic Contributions

The Scarborough Energy Project will generate significant economic benefits at both the state and national level.

During the development phase, more than A$5.4 billion will be spent in Western Australia, stimulating growth across industries. Over 3,000 jobs will be created during construction, and around 600 jobs will be sustained annually once the project enters operations. The project is expected to contribute more than A$50 billion in taxes over its lifespan, providing long-term benefits to the Australian economy.

Local and Indigenous participation is a key focus, with more than A$190 million invested in Karratha-based businesses and A$104 million awarded to 52 Indigenous businesses. This demonstrates a strong commitment to community development and inclusive growth.

Environmental Performance

Scarborough stands out for its environmental credentials. The reservoir contains less than 0.1% carbon dioxide, among the lowest globally for LNG projects. Combined with state-of-the-art processing technology at Pluto Train 2, Scarborough is expected to be one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG supplies exported to Asia.

As countries across Asia transition away from coal, Scarborough LNG will play a critical role as a transition fuel. It will reduce emissions compared to traditional energy sources while providing reliable supply as renewables continue to expand. For more details, you can review Woodside Energy’s Scarborough Project Page.

Domestic Energy Security

While LNG exports form the majority of Scarborough’s output, the project also contributes to domestic supply. It is expected to deliver up to 225 terajoules per day of domestic gas to Western Australia. This ensures energy security for households, industries, and future growth while supporting long-term regional stability.

Partnerships and Stakeholders

The Scarborough Energy Project is backed by a global network of stakeholders.

• Woodside Energy: Operator with a 74.9% stake in the Scarborough Joint Venture and 51% in Pluto Train 2.
• JERA: Holds a 15.1% interest in the Scarborough Joint Venture.
• LNG Japan: Holds a 10% non-participating interest in the Joint Venture.
• Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP): Holds a 49% non-participating interest in Pluto Train 2.

This strong mix of local and international collaboration demonstrates investor confidence and highlights Scarborough’s importance to both regional and global markets.

Global Importance

The Scarborough Energy Project has the capacity to supply LNG for over 8.5 million homes worldwide every year for more than 30 years. It will provide cleaner, reliable energy to key markets such as Japan, South Korea, and China, supporting their shift to lower-carbon solutions.

By delivering low-carbon LNG to Asia, Scarborough plays a vital role in stabilizing energy systems, complementing renewables, and ensuring supply security at a time when global energy markets face increasing volatility.

Looking Ahead

The Scarborough Energy Project (AU-LNG-WEG683-P9) is more than an LNG development. It represents a long-term vision for balancing economic growth, environmental responsibility, and energy security. With construction nearing completion and LNG exports set to begin in 2026, Scarborough will reinforce Western Australia’s global energy leadership while shaping the future of LNG supply to Asia.

At Tigranix Ventures Energy, we believe Scarborough is a benchmark project—efficient, sustainable, and globally significant.

About Tigranix Ventures Energy

Tigranix Ventures Energy Pte Ltd is dedicated to delivering insights into major energy projects that influence the global energy landscape. Our expertise spans LNG, renewables, and energy infrastructure, helping clients and partners prepare for a sustainable energy future.

Contact Information:
Sigurd Thorvaldsen
Regional Project Delivery Manager
Email: sigurd.thorvaldsen@tigranix.com
Address: 111 North Bridge Road, #06-20, Peninsula Plaza, Singapore 179098

Explore the Scarborough Energy Project (AU-LNG-WEG683-P9), a major LNG development producing 8 Mtpa by 2026. Learn about Pluto Train 2, the offshore FPU, economic benefits, and its global role in Asia’s clean energy transition.