Venture Global LNG starts commercial operations at Calcasieu Pass plant, facing legal challenges

From Yahoo Finance: 2025-04-15 15:45:00

Venture Global LNG has officially started commercial operations at its Calcasieu Pass plant in Louisiana after a three-year commissioning process. The company will now sell LNG to long-term customers at lower prices, solidifying its position as the U.S.’s second-largest LNG producer.

The commissioning process at Calcasieu Pass was delayed by the global pandemic, hurricanes, and a force majeure event. Venture Global addressed issues with the facility’s power system to ensure safe and reliable operations. Arbitration claims were filed by Shell, BP, Orlen, Edison, and Repsol, alleging deliberate delays by Venture Global.

The Gaslog Wellington tanker received the first shipment of LNG from Calcasieu Pass, with Orlen expecting its cargo on April 23. Shell is set to receive its cargo by the end of the month. Venture Global’s stock price has declined by 66% since going public in January, currently at $8.38.

Despite the start of commercial operations, ongoing arbitration cases by long-term customers against Venture Global are expected to continue. Shell, Orlen, and Repsol plan to pursue legal action even after receiving cargoes. Venture Global is set to benefit from strong global spot market prices as its Plaquemines facility ramps up production.

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