Natural Gas
As LNG Approval Pause Looms, Two Big Projects Push to Finish
U.S. energy developers await how soon President-elect Donald Trump will end the U.S. Energy Dept. pause on approvals of liquefied natural gas export terminals, in effect since early 2024. But the CEO of one approved and under-construction project, NextDecade Corp.’s $12-billion Rio Grande LNG facility in Brownsville, Texas, told investors this month that work on three trains led by Bechtel is proceeding, even as it appeals a court ruling that overturned project authorization.
“We remain committed to taking any and all available actions to ensure that Phase 1 will be delivered on time and on budget,” CEO Matt Schatzman said.
Adding to uncertainty in U.S. export capacity are further delays in finishing the $11-billion Golden Pass LNG project near Port Arthur, Texas, stemming from a major dispute earlier this year involving former lead contractor Zachry. Darren Woods, CEO of project partial owner ExxonMobil, told analysts this month that the already delayed late 2025 startup is likely to push into 2026. Applications for four LNG projects and two in pre-filing are on hold.
Looking for quick answers on construction and engineering topics?
Try Ask ENR, our new smart AI search tool.
Ask ENR →
