Golden Pass LNG is building relationships with domestic natural gas buyers and sellers as it inches closer to the possible start-up of a first train by the end of next year, according to management.

The 18 million metric ton/year (mmty) liquefied natural gas export facility has been under construction southeast of Houston since early 2019. However, updates have been infrequent despite its status as one of the few substantial additions to U.S. gas demand anticipated before 2026.

Chief Commercial Officer Jeff Hammad said the project’s low profile is part of its “unique” business model, as its entire capacity is subscribed to joint venture partners ExxonMobil and QatarEnergy. However, as Golden Pass nears the in-service date for its first train, Hammad said the company is...