Editorial Comment

A. Blume, Editor

This year could be the largest ever for LNG export project final investment decisions (FIDs). Major LNG buyers in Asia will help make possible the next wave of sanctioned liquefaction projects, with a collective capacity of more than 220 MMtpy of LNG. However, LNG suppliers will need to cater to the changing demands of buyers, which are seeking more contract variety and flexibility. 

Major projects expected to take FID in 2019 include Novatek’s $27-B Arctic LNG 2 project in Russia, at least one project in Mozambique, and four export terminals in the US: Magnolia LNG, Delfin LNG, Lake Charles LNG and Golden Pass LNG. The four US projects represent a combined export capacity of 7.6 Bft³d. 

The US EIA projects that US LNG export capacity will reach 8.9 Bft³d by the end of 2019, making it the third-largest exporter in the world behind Australia and Qatar. Australia overtook Qatar as the world’s largest LNG exporter in November of last year. US LNG export capacity was expected to end 2018 at 4.9 Bft³d as two new LNG trains became operational on the US Gulf Coast. The three-train Cameron LNG project and the two-train Freeport LNG project are being commissioned, and will be placed in service during 2019.  

The Elba Island LNG facility in Georgia is also scheduled to become fully operational by the end of the year. Elba Island LNG comprises 10 modular liquefaction units with a combined capacity of 0.33 Bft³d. Additionally, the second train at Corpus Christi LNG is scheduled to be placed in service in 2Q 2019. GP