U.S. energy developers are waiting to see how far President-elect Donald Trump will end the U.S. Department of Energy’s pause on LNG export terminal approvals, in effect since early 2024. But the CEO of an approved and under-construction project, NextDecade Corp. The $12 billion Rio Grande LNG facility in Brownsville, Texas, told investors this month that work on three Bechtel-led trains is underway, even as it appeals a court ruling that overturned the project authorization.
“We remain committed to taking all available actions to ensure Phase 1 is delivered on time and on budget,” said CEO Matt Schatzman.
Adding to the uncertainty over US export capacity are further delays in finishing the $11 billion Golden Pass LNG project near Port Arthur, Texas, following a major dispute earlier this year involving former prime contractor Zachry. Darren Woods, chief executive of project part-owner ExxonMobil, told analysts this month that the already delayed late 2025 start-up is likely to be pushed into 2026. Applications for four LNG projects and two in previous presentation are in abeyance.
