The developers of the Freeport liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility in Texas are targeting a mid-2022 final investment decision (FID) and a 2026 startup for the plant’s fourth train as customers indicate interest for long-term contracts.

Freeport LNG

However, CEO Michael Smith told NGI last week that Freeport LNG will maintain a patient approach when it comes to the project. He is hopeful that Train 4 will be the first project sanctioned among a lineup of facilities scheduled for FID next year, but added, “I think the demand is such that I can be second, third or fourth and we’ll get it done. And if it’s not ‘22, it’ll be ‘23.”

Smith, who owns 63.45% of the privately held project, said the company has seen a “total transformation” of the global natural gas market since...