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Australia’s energy giant Woodside is moving its liquefied natural gas (LNG) development project in Louisiana closer to the targeted first cargo in 2029 with a new construction milestone at the project site in the Pelican State, United States (U.S.).
The Louisiana LNG project on the U.S. Gulf Coast was 28% complete at the end of the second quarter of 2026, as buildout activities gather pace toward first LNG cargo in 2029. Located in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, between Houston and New Orleans, the project constitutes a $17.5 billion investment.
Since announcing a final investment decision (FID) more than 14 months ago, activities at the site have ramped up , with two massive LNG storage tanks and three LNG trains under construction, as Woodside confirms that the project remains on budget.
Rachel Archer , Acting SVP Louisiana LNG, commented: “Louisiana LNG continues to make strong progress as we safely advance construction and deliver key project milestones.
“Every achievement reflects the dedication of our teams, partners and contractors, and reinforces our commitment to creating lasting economic opportunities for Southwest Louisiana while responsibly delivering energy to global markets.”
The operator claims that the project’s strategic location provides access to abundant, low-cost U.S. natural gas, strengthening its ability to deliver secure, reliable energy to customers.
The company emphasizes that structural steel has been erected for both trains, while concrete pilings progressed for Train 3. At the end of Q2, trains 1, 2 and 3 were 35%, 25%, and 18% complete, respectively.
The two large LNG storage tanks, which are also shaping up, are set to be the biggest in North America upon completion, each holding 235,000 cubic meters, equivalent to more than 90 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
With a permit for up to 27.6 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG production, the Louisiana LNG project is targeting production from a three-train foundation development with a capacity of 16.5 million tonnes per annum.
As previously reported by Woodside, there is an expansion capacity for two additional LNG trains. Among activities at the project site, the operator also confirmed dredging Berth 1 to the required depth to allow LNG carriers to access the terminal.
In addition, the firm announced the beginning of roof panel installation on Tank 1. The contract award to Louisiana-based supplier Green Tug Towing for the design and construction of four new tugboats is seen as an example of Woodside’s commitment to engaging local suppliers.
“The growing Louisiana LNG team remains focused on safely delivering the project. Priorities include progressing construction of the three LNG trains, advancing the LNG jetty and completing the walls of the storage tanks ahead of roof installation,” added the firm.