March 31, 2026 [Storage Terminals Magazine]- Golden Pass LNG, a joint venture between QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil, has reached a significant milestone on its path to full operations with the production of its first liquefied natural gas (LNG). The achievement marks the start-up of the first of three LNG trains that together will deliver a total production capacity of 18 million tonnes per annum.

The successful production of first LNG represents a critical step toward the commencement of export activities from the facility in Sabine Pass, Texas. It sets the foundation for sustained liquefaction operations and positions the project to meet its commercial and strategic objectives, with the first cargo expected in the second quarter of 2026.

Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi described the milestone as particularly significant, noting that the project represents one of the largest single investment decisions in the history of the US LNG sector. He highlighted that the facility’s transition into operations and entry into the global market comes at a time when energy security remains a top priority worldwide.

The development forms part of QatarEnergy’s broader international investment strategy, which has been pursued over the past decade. It also aligns with previously announced plans to invest approximately $20 billion in the U.S. energy sector. The project is expected to play an important role in enhancing global energy security while supporting access to cleaner energy sources.

The Golden Pass LNG project is owned by QatarEnergy, which holds a 70 percent stake, and ExxonMobil, which holds the remaining 30 percent. The partners took a final investment decision exceeding $10 billion in February 2019 to advance the development of the export facility.

With first LNG now achieved, the project moves closer to full operational status, marking a major step forward in strengthening LNG supply capacity to global markets.