Woodside Advances $17.5 Billion Louisiana LNG Project with Strong Construction Momentum
Woodside Energy marked a major milestone in its U.S. expansion with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Louisiana LNG Project, a development valued at $17.5 billion. The event, held in southwest Louisiana, was attended by state and federal government officials, community leaders, and company representatives, underscoring the significance of the project for both the region and the global energy market.
The ceremony celebrated the rapid progress achieved since the company’s final investment decision (FID) was announced on April 29, 2025. In just a few short months, the construction workforce has grown to nearly 900 people, a figure expected to rise substantially as the project advances. Work on the first of three liquefied natural gas (LNG) trains is already over 22% complete, reflecting strong momentum in the early stages of development.
A Foundation for U.S. LNG Leadership
The Louisiana LNG Project is being developed as a three-train foundation facility with a production capacity of 16.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa). First LNG production is targeted for 2029, a timeline that places Woodside in a strong position to serve surging demand in both European and Asian energy markets. Importantly, the facility is fully permitted to expand to five trains, which would boost total output capacity to 27.6 Mtpa—making it one of the largest LNG export hubs in the United States.
For Woodside, this initiative represents far more than just another project. It is the company’s largest-ever investment in the U.S. and, according to Louisiana officials, the largest foreign direct investment in the state’s history. By establishing such a major footprint, Woodside is reinforcing its ambition to be recognized as a global LNG powerhouse, capable of supplying energy to diverse regions and contributing to international energy security.
CEO Highlights Economic and Energy Security Benefits
Speaking at the event, Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill emphasized the transformative nature of the project for the company, the community, and the broader global market.
“The Louisiana LNG Project is a game-changer for Woodside,” O’Neill said. “It positions us as a major LNG supplier on the global stage, while also delivering enduring value to our shareholders. Equally important, this development will create economic opportunities for thousands of Americans and support energy security at a time when global demand for reliable supply is stronger than ever.”
O’Neill noted that the project is expected to support tens of thousands of high-quality U.S. jobs throughout its lifecycle—from construction to long-term operations. She also highlighted the expected fiscal contributions, projecting that billions of dollars in revenues would flow to both state and federal governments, generating tangible benefits for the communities surrounding the site.
She expressed gratitude for the extensive support the project has received:
“We appreciate the strong backing from local, Louisiana State, and U.S. Federal governments. Their recognition of the project’s economic and strategic contributions has been essential in moving forward quickly and efficiently.”
Strategic Partnerships to Strengthen Development
In addition to construction progress, Woodside has been active in forming strategic partnerships to underpin the project’s financing and market positioning. In June 2025, the company finalized the sell-down of a 40% stake in Louisiana LNG Infrastructure LLC to New York-based investment firm Stonepeak. The agreement not only diversified the project’s capital base but also brought in a partner with deep expertise in energy infrastructure.
Discussions continue with other potential investors to sell equity in the project holding company, Louisiana LNG LLC. These negotiations are part of Woodside’s broader strategy to align with long-term partners who share its vision of expanding U.S. LNG capacity and securing access to premium global energy markets.
Local Content and Global Reach
Sarah Bairstow, President of Louisiana LNG, praised the pace of progress and reaffirmed Woodside’s focus on safety, local engagement, and international competitiveness.
“Construction activity led by our contractor Bechtel is advancing at pace,” Bairstow said. “What makes this project unique is the strong commitment to U.S.-based sourcing and labor. Approximately 85% of construction spending is occurring within the United States, ensuring that the project delivers maximum benefits to local communities and businesses.”
At the same time, Bairstow emphasized the project’s international marketing strategy, noting that LNG from Louisiana will play a critical role in diversifying global supply chains.
“We are actively marketing U.S. LNG to customers in both Europe and Asia, with deliveries targeted from 2029 onward. These markets are seeking long-term, secure, and flexible LNG supply, and Louisiana LNG is well-positioned to meet those needs.”
