QatarEnergy is in advanced discussions to purchase up to 2 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas annually from a proposed expansion of NextDecade’s Rio Grande LNG facility in Texas, according to Reuters.
The potential agreement concerns Train 6, a planned addition to the export complex that has not yet received a final investment decision.
NextDecade is targeting a decision on the expansion in 2027, meaning the proposed capacity remains subject to permitting, commercial arrangements and investment approval.
The first five trains at Rio Grande LNG are expected to provide approximately 30 million metric tons of annual production capacity once operational.
The reported negotiations reflect QatarEnergy’s efforts to diversify its supply portfolio beyond its own Middle Eastern production facilities.
The company is pursuing additional long-term U.S. LNG arrangements as geopolitical tensions continue creating uncertainty around exports passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
QatarEnergy has also reportedly been discussing potential purchases from other U.S. developers, including Venture Global and Woodside.
For NextDecade, a long-term purchase commitment could support the commercial foundation needed to advance the Train 6 project.
However, negotiations do not constitute a signed supply contract, and the proposed volume should not be counted as secured sales.
The next developments to watch are a formal supply agreement, regulatory authorizations and a final investment decision for the expansion.
