The Moomba Central Optimisation (MCO) Project is a major infrastructure development located in the Cooper Basin, South Australia. The project is being delivered by Santos Ltd to modernise and optimise upstream gas operations through consolidation of compression infrastructure and electrification of key facilities.

The project involves the rationalisation of existing compression across multiple satellite facilities into a new Central Fields Satellite (CFS), supported by the installation of new electric motor-driven compression at the Moomba Gas Plant (Moomba Plant Inlet Compression, MPIC). To supply the increased electrical demand associated with electrified compression, the project includes construction of a new gas-fired power generation facility (Moomba Power Station) with a nominal capacity of approximately 45-50 MW.

The Moomba Power Station will operate as an islanded, behind-the-meter facility supplying electricity via a high-voltage distribution network, including overhead transmission lines and associated electrical infrastructure, to both the CFS and MPIC facilities. The design includes provision for future expansion and integration of renewable energy sources.

In addition to the core facilities, the project scope includes:

• Installation of high-voltage electrical infrastructure, including switchrooms, transformers, and overhead lines


• Construction of pipelines and associated tie-ins to integrate existing field infrastructure


• Brownfield modifications to existing satellite facilities to enable decommissioning or bypass of legacy compression systems


• Supporting infrastructure including utilities, control systems, and site development works

The project is located within an existing hydrocarbon production area and will leverage established infrastructure, access corridors, and operational facilities. Execution will involve a combination of greenfield construction and brownfield integration works.

The MCO Project is intended to deliver improved operational reliability, reduced operating and sustaining capital costs, and enable future development of gas resources within the Cooper Basin. It also supports emissions reduction objectives through improved energy efficiency and provision for future renewable integration.