Venture Global seeks FERC approval for Plaquemines LNG expansion

Core Viewpoint - Venture Global is seeking regulatory approval for the Plaquemines LNG brownfield expansion project, which will significantly increase its liquefied natural gas production capacity due to strong market demand and optimization efforts [1][2][3]. Group 1: Project Details - The expansion project will increase the expected output by nearly 40% since its announcement earlier this year [1]. - The expansion will add over 30 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) in peak production capacity, raising the total peak production capacity at the Plaquemines complex to more than 58 mtpa [4]. - The expansion will be implemented incrementally in three phases and will consist of 32 modular liquefaction trains [3]. Group 2: Market Context - The increase in LNG production is attributed to the continued optimization of liquefaction trains and strong market demand [2]. - The CEO of Venture Global emphasized that the expansion is a logical and economically efficient opportunity to leverage existing infrastructure [2]. - The decision to increase the project's permitted capacity reflects ongoing strong market demand [3]. Group 3: Regulatory Process - Venture Global has applied to the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a permit and approval for the expansion project [1]. - The company has also filed a request with the US Department of Energy (DoE) for export authorizations related to the expansion [1]. - FERC granted Venture Global an extension to continue the commissioning phase of its Plaquemines LNG plant, allowing the company to delay full commercial operations and sell LNG on the spot market at potentially higher prices [4][5].