Golden Pass LNG, a joint venture between QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil, has produced its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) at its new Texas facility, a major milestone toward bringing one of the largest US export projects online.
According to Exxon, the plant is expected to export its first LNG cargo in Q2 2026.
“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,” said Alex Savva, president and CEO of Golden Pass.
He further said that once fully operational, Golden Pass will be able to produce 18 million metric tons per annum.
“Golden Pass LNG will strengthen US energy production and reinforce the nation’s role as a reliable supplier to global markets, enhancing energy security and helping meet worldwide demand,” Exxon said.
Discussing Golden Pass LNG, QatarEnergy holds a 70% stake in the project, while Exxon’s stake stands at 30%.
“Train 1, the initial production unit, will add 6 mtpa of new LNG capacity. Based on equity ownership, QatarEnergy will receive just over 4 mtpa while Exxon will receive just under 2 mtpa. This milestone reflects an unwavering commitment to safety and continued progress toward full operations,” Exxon remarked further.
The development also gives a major breather to QatarEnergy, the world’s second‑largest LNG exporter, after being compelled to declare force majeure on its production activities in the Gulf region, citing the Middle East conflict, which also saw Iranian strikes upon its facilities, which account for roughly 20% of the global LNG supply. Damages to those infrastructures could leave the company without about 17% of its current output for up to five years.
The USD 10 billion Golden Pass project itself faced delays and cost overruns since construction began in 2019, including the bankruptcy of its original lead contractor.
The plant’s ability to sustain liquefaction operations and meet its commercial and strategic targets will be under the radar, as supply disruptions from Qatar have resulted in a spike in Asian LNG prices, prompting countries to turn to coal or restrict energy exports to contend with the shortages.