QatarEnergy loads first LNG cargo from Golden Pass project
QatarEnergy’s largest US investment — the Golden Pass LNG project in Texas — has completed its first successful loading of an LNG export cargo.
The Sabine Pass facility is a joint venture between QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil. The historic load marks an important step towards the commencement of full commercial and export operations.
New vessel receives debut shipment
The LNG cargo was safely loaded onto QatarEnergy’s Al-Qaiyyah, a recently built LNG carrier with 174,000-cubic-meter capacity from the Republic of Korea.
“This is a significant industry milestone that marks a new chapter in QatarEnergy’s global efforts to meet rising LNG demand and ensure reliable supplies to international markets,” said His Excellency Mr Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs, President and CEO of QatarEnergy.
“The Golden Pass LNG project is one of the single largest investment decisions in the history of the US LNG sector, affirming QatarEnergy’s position and reputation as a reliable provider and a trusted partner of choice that drives growth and development around the world.”
Landmark project in LNG supply chain
Golden Pass LNG is a 70/30 partnership between QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil. The companies announced their final investment decision of more than $10 billion for developing the project in February 2019.
The Texas facility has 18 million tons per annum of LNG production capacity, 70% of which will be offtaken by QatarEnergy Trading, QatarEnergy’s wholly owned LNG trading entity.
Golden Pass LNG achieved sustained liquefaction operations and first LNG production from the first of its three LNG trains on 30 March.
The commencement of LNG offtake from Golden Pass LNG will complement QatarEnergy Trading’s global LNG portfolio and support the growth of its business.
“I would like to thank the relevant US authorities and regulators for their cooperation on this key project,” H.E. Minister Al-Kaabi added.
“We are also grateful for the strong commitment of the QatarEnergy and Golden Pass LNG teams in delivering this important energy project, as well as the invaluable role played by our strategic partner, ExxonMobil,” he said.
