Equinor Initiates US LNG Supply, Targets Portfolio Doubling by 2030

Norwegian state-owned energy company Equinor has commenced receiving liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes from the US Gulf Coast, under long-term supply agreements with Texas-headquartered Cheniere. This development supports Equinor's objective to double its global LNG portfolio by 2030, Offshore Energy reported on 4 September 2026.

The inaugural cargo was loaded at Cheniere’s Sabine Pass LNG export facility in Louisiana. The Isabella LNG carrier, owned by Maran Gas, completed this first loading and is one of several vessels contracted by Equinor for these transport operations. The cargo is destined for Europe, according to Offshore Energy.

Long-Term Supply Agreements

The supply agreements, signed in 2022 and 2023, are structured to provide Equinor with approximately 3.5 million tons of LNG annually from Cheniere’s Gulf Coast facilities. This substantial volume is intended to support Equinor's growth plans for its LNG business.

Equinor stated that the addition of LNG volumes from the Gulf Coast is anticipated to enhance the company's integrated position by improving market access, increasing portfolio flexibility, and fostering long-term value creation. The firm also indicated that future deliveries would serve customers in both Asia and Europe, responding to market demand.

Strategic Importance and Energy Security

Helle Østergaard Kristiansen, Senior Vice President for Gas and Power at Equinor, commented that the US is expected to play an increasingly significant role in their global LNG portfolio. This, she added, would complement Equinor's existing gas position and provide additional flexibility for serving customers in Europe and Asia.

According to Offshore Energy, Equinor considers these agreements with Cheniere as part of a broader strategy to develop a diversified LNG business. This strategy aims to provide energy security through long-term, reliable supply arrangements, combining access to competitive gas resources, shipping capabilities, and global marketing and trading expertise. Chris Golden, Equinor's U.S. Country Manager and Senior Vice President Upstream U.S. and Argentina, underscored the US's position as a cornerstone of the global LNG market due to its natural gas resources and infrastructure.