Sabine pass: Golden Pass LNG, a joint venture between QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil, has marked a major milestone towards full operations of its LNG production and export facilities by achieving first LNG production from the first of three LNG trains comprising the 18 million tons per annum project. First LNG sets the stage for Golden Pass LNG to deliver its first cargo from its facilities located in Sabine Pass, Texas, by achieving sustained liquefaction operations, and meeting its commercial and strategic objectives.
According to Qatar News Agency, HE Minister of State for Energy Affairs, Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, who is the President and CEO of QatarEnergy, emphasized the significance of the first LNG production. He stated, "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."
HE Al Kaabi further explained that Golden Pass LNG is an integral part of QatarEnergy's international investment strategy, which has been in development over the past decade. He noted that the project reflects QatarEnergy's 2018 pledge to invest 20 billion dollars in the US energy sector. The commencement of operations at Golden Pass LNG is viewed as a significant outcome of this long-term strategy, contributing to global energy security and providing fair access to cleaner energy.
Concluding his remarks, HE Al Kaabi expressed gratitude towards US regulators for their cooperation, which was instrumental in reaching this milestone. He also acknowledged the strategic partnership with ExxonMobil and praised the teams at Golden Pass LNG, QatarEnergy, and ExxonMobil for their commitment and dedication. Golden Pass LNG is a partnership between QatarEnergy, holding a 70% stake, and ExxonMobil, with a 30% stake. The companies announced their final investment decision of over 10 billion dollars for the development of the project in February 2019. Global LNG exports from the project are anticipated to begin in the second quarter of 2026.