News Summary
Woodside has signed a crucial deal with Bechtel for its liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Lake Charles, Louisiana. This partnership will facilitate the development of three LNG trains with a total capacity of 16.5 million tonnes per annum. Woodside aims to address the global demand for LNG while creating value for shareholders. With significant financial forecasts and a strategic vision towards growth, this project could transform the local economy and position Woodside as a key player in the international energy market.
Exciting Developments in Lake Charles, Louisiana
Lake Charles is buzzing with excitement as Woodside signs an important deal with Bechtel to push forward its ambitious liquefied natural gas (LNG) development project. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the journey of the Louisiana LNG project, which aims to cater to the increasing global demand for LNG while creating substantial value for shareholders.
What’s in Store?
Under this revised lump sum turnkey engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract, Woodside plans to develop three LNG trains with an impressive combined capacity of 16.5 million tonnes per annum. Bechtel has been on the ground since the project was acquired, and the company will continue its work under a limited notice to proceed (LNTP). This means ongoing construction can proceed, ensuring a steady commitment to key materials and services for the foundation of this major project.
A Path Towards Growth
CEO Meg O’Neill of Woodside emphasized how crucial this EPC contract signing is for the advancement of the Louisiana LNG project. This project not only reflects Woodside’s commitment to meet global energy needs but is also recognized as a fully permitted and strategic venture with Bechtel on board as the EPC contractor.
Key Details of the Project
With the project progressing swiftly, Woodside has already secured competitive EPC pricing for all three trains and has set up a data room for potential project partners, inviting collaboration and investment. There is great confidence in the Louisiana LNG venture, especially since it carries a total permitted capacity of 27.6 million tonnes per annum.
Financial Forecasts and Budgets
As it stands, Woodside is forecasting an expenditure ranging from $1.3 billion from December 2023 until the end of the first quarter of 2025, signaling robust financial planning and execution. Not to forget, the estimated forward cost for the foundation development remains steady, sitting at about $900-960 per tonne since the project acquisition.
Strategic Vision
This project isn’t just about numbers; Woodside is keen to leverage the unique opportunities it provides. Located in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, the Louisiana LNG development is viewed as a major opportunity for Woodside to accelerate its US LNG position and serve customers globally, pointing towards a bright horizon in the energy market.
Looking Ahead
Woodside has set its sights on being ready to make a final investment decision (FID) by Q1 2025. This decision will be pivotal, not only for the company but also for its stakeholders and the local community who are eager to see the benefits of this project come to fruition.
Future Discussions
As with any large-scale development, Woodside’s announcement comes with its share of forward-looking statements, closely tied to market conditions and operational expectations. The management team at Woodside appears optimistic, underpinning their strategies with solid assumptions that guide their future operations.
The unfolding story of the Louisiana LNG development is one to watch as Woodside and Bechtel continue to collaborate on this transformative project. The locals are hopeful that the benefits will ripple through the area, from job creation to economic stimulation, making Lake Charles a key player in the global energy landscape.
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Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
