US approves offshore LNG export port project in Texas
The US Maritime Administration (MARAD) has approved the deepwater port license application for ST LNG, LLC, advancing plans for a new offshore liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility off the coast of Texas.
The proposed project represents an estimated investment of US$8.2 billion and will be located approximately 10.4 miles offshore Matagorda. According to the US Department of Transportation, the facility is designed to increase the country’s LNG export capacity through four liquefaction systems, each capable of producing 2.1 million tonnes annually.
Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with operations scheduled to commence in 2029. At full development, the facility is planned to include 20 offshore platforms, four LNG floating storage units, four mooring systems and approximately 7.7 miles of pipeline infrastructure.
The project will receive natural gas from the Tres Palacios Natural Gas Storage and Trading Hub and the Williams Markham Gas Processing Plant, using an existing Transco pipeline located approximately 5.6 miles northeast of the proposed offshore facility.
According to federal estimates, the development could increase US LNG export capacity by approximately 7% to 9%. The Department of Transportation also expects the project to support around 2,000 construction jobs and up to 855 permanent positions.
Offshore infrastructure and licensing
The approval follows a federal review process involving MARAD, the US Coast Guard, other federal agencies and the State of Texas.
According to the Department of Transportation, the Final Environmental Impact Statement for ST LNG was completed in 410 days, approximately 70% faster than the historical average cited by the department.
The offshore location is intended to accommodate LNG carrier operations away from more congested onshore port areas. Federal officials expect this arrangement to reduce vessel traffic conflicts and associated navigational risks.
The licensing decision represents a significant regulatory milestone for the project, although construction and commercial operations remain subject to the development schedule and implementation of the approved plans.
The planned facility would add offshore LNG liquefaction, storage and vessel-loading infrastructure to the Texas Gulf Coast, expanding the region’s capacity to support seaborne LNG exports.
