QatarEnergy LNG Expansion Delayed by Strait of Hormuz Disruptions
QatarEnergy's North Field LNG expansion is facing delays due to disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, according to CEO Saad al-Kaabi. Al-Kaabi stated that equipment needed for the expansion has been unable to reach Qatar because of the disruption.
The first train of the North Field East (NFE) expansion is expected to start production in the first half of 2027, but the timeline for additional trains depends on the resolution of the Hormuz situation. Several NFE trains are due to start up in 2027, while the North Field South expansion is expected to begin production in 2028.
Qatar's LNG export hub at Ras Laffan has been damaged in attacks that knocked out about 17% of the country's LNG capacity. Two LNG trains were damaged and could take up to three years to repair, while repairs to a gas-to-liquids plant are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.
Al-Kaabi stated that Qatar would be able to restore normal gas operations within weeks of the Strait of Hormuz reopening. The country is currently producing very little LNG due to the disruptions.