Energy companies have signaled strong interest in buying $115 billion worth of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Alaska once the Trump-backed project is completed, according to Glenfarne, the company leading the initiative. Glenfarne reported that about 50 firms have formally expressed their intent to purchase LNG from the planned facility.
The $44-billion LNG export terminal has significant backing from the Trump administration. Officials have been urging key Asian allies, including Japan and South Korea, to increase their LNG imports from the U.S. This push aims to help reduce America’s trade deficit with these countries, a strategy similar to the approach taken with Europe.
Glenfarne noted that interested buyers come from the U.S., Europe, India, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. These nations align with the Trump administration’s focus on expanding U.S. energy exports.
Last month, Taiwan officially agreed to buy LNG from the Alaska project. For Taiwan, this deal is especially practical. Alaska LNG will be the closest U.S. supply source, meaning shipments won’t need to pass through the Panama Canal. This shortens shipping times, lowers transit risks, and improves the reliability of Taiwan’s natural gas supply, according to Taiwan’s economy ministry.
Japanese trading giant Mitsui, which invests in LNG worldwide, has also shown interest in financially backing the Alaska project. Other Japanese energy leaders, JERA and Mitsubishi, are also seen as potential partners.
The Alaska LNG project aims to produce 20 million tons of LNG annually. The gas will travel through an 800-mile pipeline to the Gulf of Alaska, where it will be shipped globally. Additionally, the project will supply natural gas locally within Alaska.
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