Venture Global, a key player in the energy market, confirmed on December 15, 2024, the start of liquefied natural gas (LNG) production at its Plaquemines LNG terminal, located in Port Sulphur, Louisiana. This terminal, with a nameplate capacity of 20 million tons per year (MTPA), achieved this strategic milestone just 30 months after its Final Investment Decision (FID).
With this record-breaking speed, Plaquemines LNG joins Venture Global’s first terminal, Calcasieu Pass, as one of the two fastest greenfield projects to reach production. Once fully operational, Plaquemines LNG will rank among the largest LNG production facilities in the world.
An Innovation and Speed Model
Plaquemines LNG’s success is built on a unique technical configuration and an innovative construction approach. Unlike traditional projects, this facility is already producing and exporting LNG while construction and commissioning of the 36 trains and associated infrastructure continue. This strategy allows Venture Global to bring new capacity to a global market strained for LNG supply.
The project progressed in two phases, with FIDs in May 2022 for Phase 1 and March 2023 for Phase 2. This modular and phased operational management enables quicker responses to growing demand while reducing commissioning delays.
Economic and Geopolitical Impact
The Plaquemines LNG terminal is part of Venture Global’s broader investment strategy, with current and future projects representing a $50 billion commitment. These projects aim to bolster global energy security while supporting local economies and creating thousands of jobs across the United States.
At the same time, this increased capacity helps maintain the United States’ position as the world’s top LNG exporter. Amid tight markets and delays on other international projects, Plaquemines LNG is a strategic asset in providing reliable energy to U.S. allies.
The rapid development of this facility also reflects shifting geopolitical priorities. Energy supply has become a central issue, particularly in response to recent global LNG market imbalances and challenges posed by international crises.
