Energy Pipelines Cooperative Research Centre

Assisting in the delivery of safer, more efficient and reliable pipelines to meet Australia's growing energy needs

The Energy Pipelines Cooperative Research Centre (EPCRC) provided the Australian energy pipeline industry with the technology necessary to extend the life of the existing natural gas transmission network, and to build better, cheaper and safer networks that can support increased demand for energy.

EPCRC is a collaboration involving the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association Research and Standards Committee (APGA RSC), the University of Adelaide, Deakin University, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and the University of Wollongong.

APGA RSC consists of approximately 60 companies from across the pipeline supply chain including pipeline owners, designers, constructors, pipe suppliers, contractors and consultants.

Pipelines are technologically advanced and complex systems required to work continuously, efficiently and safely. Pipeline failure or outage can have significant, far-reaching consequences including impacting the security of supply for export and domestic markets and consequently the Australian economy. Moreover, the existing pipeline network was largely constructed in the 1970s and 1980s with large portions nearing end of life. Combined with a huge increase in the demand for domestic energy and export gas, urban sprawl and a changing pipeline ownership landscape, the pressures on the pipeline network have never been greater.

The EPCRC collaboration received strong industry support and project teams were made up of actively engaged industry personnel and researchers. It has provided significant value to the Australian pipeline industry and has been recognised for its world leading research into pipeline innovation and improved safety.

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