Venture Global, Inc. (VG), a major U.S.-based exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), is poised for significant growth as it expands its production capacity to meet rising global demand. The company operates multiple LNG facilities in Louisiana and is currently advancing two key expansion projects: CP2 and Plaquemines. The CP2 expansion will add 12 liquefaction trains with a total capacity of 10 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), with first production expected by late 2028. The Plaquemines expansion's first phase will contribute approximately 6 MTPA, with production targeted for 2029. These expansions will bring VG's total production capacity to around 85 MTPA by 2029.
VG's growth prospects are further supported by recent geopolitical developments, particularly the conflict in the Middle East, which has disrupted supply from Qatar and the UAE. Despite higher prices, global LNG imports remained steady through July 2026, indicating resilient demand. Low European gas inventories could also boost LNG import demand ahead of the winter season. Management has raised its full-year 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance to $8.7-$9.1 billion, reflecting the current market outlook.
The energy sector is also benefiting from rising natural gas demand, driven by the expansion of data centers and the shift from coal to gas for power generation. Enbridge Inc. (ENB) is capitalizing on this trend through the expansion of its natural gas storage facilities. Shell (SHEL) has one of the largest and most geographically diversified LNG portfolios, with supply from over 10 countries and sales across more than 30 markets. SHEL expects global LNG demand to rise about 65% by 2050.
VG's stock has increased 46.5% over the past year, outperforming the industry average of 30.5%. The company trades at a trailing 12-month enterprise value to EBITDA (EV/EBITDA) of 9.98X, below the broader industry average of 11.04X. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for VG’s 2026 earnings has seen upward revisions over the past 30 days. VG and ENB both carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), while SHEL sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).