Golden Pass LNG, a joint venture between QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil, has produced the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) from its export facility in Sabine Pass, Texas.
The milestone marks the start of operations for the first of three liquefaction trains planned at the site, which has a total projected capacity of 18.1 million tonnes per year (mtpa).
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Golden Pass LNG expects to begin global LNG exports in the second quarter of 2026.
Golden Pass LNG president and CEO Alex Savva said: “Today, we began producing LNG at our terminal in Sabine Pass, marking the completion of a significant effort to construct, commission, and start up the first LNG Train and the beginning of operating a world-class facility with an exceptional team.
“This remarkable step was achieved through the unwavering dedication of our employees, commitment of our shareholders, and the strength of our partnerships.”
QatarEnergy holds a 70% stake in the project, with ExxonMobil owning the remaining 30%.
The two companies reached their final investment decision, valued at more than $10bn, to proceed with developing the Golden Pass LNG export terminal in February 2019.
QatarEnergy Minister of State for Energy Affairs and QatarEnergy president and CEO Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi said: “First LNG is of a particular importance for one of the largest single investment decisions in US LNG history.
“The operational phase and market entry of Golden Pass LNG will come at an important time when global energy security ranks very high on energy agendas worldwide. We look forward to the safe and successful start of export operations.”
The Golden Pass facility also includes five 155,000m3 storage tanks and two marine berths designed to handle some of the world’s largest LNG carriers.
In August 2024, Golden Pass LNG requested a three-year extension from US regulators to complete the construction of the LNG export project.
