QatarEnergy's LNG expansion project poised to start operations in November, sources say
UNG•The first LNG train in QatarEnergy's North Field East expansion is expected to be ready to start operations in November, two people said. LNG production from the train is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2027.
1. First train timeline
The first liquefied natural gas train under QatarEnergy's North Field East expansion project is expected to be ready to start operation in November, two people aware of the company's plans said. LNG production from the train is expected to start in the first quarter of 2027.
2. Damage and ramp-up
The project is proceeding as Qatar recovers from damage to Ras Laffan caused by Iranian attacks, which wiped out 17% of the country's LNG capacity. Two LNG trains were damaged, with repairs expected to take three years; repairs to a gas-to-liquids plant are due to finish in the first quarter of 2027. A sustained ramp-up will ultimately require unrestricted transit through the Strait of Hormuz, said Mehdy Touil, lead LNG specialist at Calypso Commodities.
