EPIK, a liquefied natural gas project development company, has announced it has appointed Australia and New Zealand Banking Group to serve as financial adviser for its Newcastle GasDock LNG import terminal.

ANZ will provide debt and equity advisory services for EPIK’s flagship floating storage and regasification unit project at the Port of Newcastle in the lead up to a final investment decision, anticipated in mid-2020.

“We are pleased to be partnering with EPIK as financial adviser in the development of this critical infrastructure project, which is uniquely positioned to provide competitive gas supply to the region,” Ian Wainwright, ANZ executive director said.

In August, the New South Wales government declared EPIK’s Newcastle GasDock LNG import terminal project as Critical State Significant Infrastructure, recognising the project for its vital role in providing long-term energy and gas security to the region.

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“ANZ adds tremendous financial and advisory expertise to the Newcastle GasDock project as we continue to make significant commercial and regulatory progress,” Jee Yoon, EPIK’s managing director said.

“We have confidence that with ANZ’s assistance we will be able to secure optimal capital resources for the project, allowing us to provide the most competitive supply to the region.”

NSW currently relies on interstate imports for about 95% of its gas supply and recent changes in the domestic market have resulted in significant market volatility and price increases, negatively impacting industry and households across the state. As proposed, the Newcastle GasDock terminal will be capable of supplying more than 80% of NSW’s current gas demand, with the potential to increase throughput as demand requires.

In addition to EPIK’s recent engagement with ANZ, the Newcastle GasDock project is supported by advisers and consultants, including environmental and planning support from Arup, engineering, design and construction services from Australian EPC firm, Watpac, as well as legal and regulatory counsel from K&L Gates, among others.