Cheniere expands U.S. LNG export capacity through new Bechtel agreement

14:00

Cheniere Energy Partners has signed a major agreement with Bechtel Energy to move forward with the first phase of the expansion of its Sabine Pass LNG terminal in Louisiana, reinforcing the United States’ position as one of the world’s leading exporters of liquefied natural gas.

The agreement covers engineering, procurement and construction work for the new phase of the project located in Cameron Parish, Louisiana. The expansion is expected to increase production capacity and strengthen the country’s role in global energy supply at a time of growing international demand for LNG.

The Sabine Pass terminal is already one of the largest liquefied natural gas export facilities in the world, with a production capacity exceeding 30 million tonnes per annum. The facility plays a strategic role in exporting abundant U.S. shale gas from regions such as the Permian and Haynesville basins to international markets.

The first phase of the expansion includes the construction of Train 7, as well as additional infrastructure and a boil-off gas re-liquefaction unit connected to the existing terminal. According to the company, the new phase is expected to add more than 6 million tonnes per annum of LNG production capacity.

Cheniere also announced that Bechtel has received a limited notice to proceed, allowing early engineering and procurement activities to begin before the final investment decision is made.

The company expects to reach a final investment decision in early 2027. Analysts believe the project could further strengthen the United States’ influence in the global energy market, particularly as many countries continue seeking alternatives to Russian and Middle Eastern gas supplies.

The expansion reflects the continuing growth of the LNG sector in North America and highlights the increasing importance of long-term energy infrastructure investments amid evolving geopolitical and economic conditions.