Cheniere reports substantial completion of Texas LNG project’s Train 1

Cheniere Energy has reported substantial completion of the first train of its Corpus Christi Liquefaction Project (CCL) in Texas, US.

Last week, the company secured approval from the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to begin liquefaction and export services at CCL’s Train 1.

Cheniere has completed the commissioning of the first train and has taken over care, custody and control of the train from its EPC partner Bechtel Oil, Gas and Chemicals.

The first production of LNG from Train 1 was achieved last November.

Cheniere Energy president and CEO Jack Fusco said: “Train 1 at Corpus Christi has achieved substantial completion, becoming the first liquefaction train placed into operation at a greenfield liquefaction facility in the lower 48 states.

“This momentous achievement was made possible by Cheniere’s professionals and our EPC partner, Bechtel, who worked diligently together to ensure a seamless transition from construction to operations.

“I’d like to thank the Cheniere team and Bechtel for their world-class execution, which has enabled us to continue our impeccable record of bringing trains online safely, ahead of schedule, and within budget.”

The first commissioning cargo from the project left the liquefaction facility in December for export.

The Corpus Christi LNG project will have three trains with an estimated aggregate production capacity of up to 13.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of LNG.

The second train is expected to reach substantial completion in the second half of 2019, while Train 3 will achieve the milestone in the second half of 2021.

Cheniere is also developing seven mid-scale liquefaction trains near the project to increase the total production capacity by 9.5Mtpa.

Bechtel chairman and CEO Brendan Bechtel said: “The entire Bechtel team is very proud of our contribution to Cheniere’s success on the US Gulf Coast, as we hand over custody of this historic first Texas LNG train.”

Cheniere signed sale and purchase agreements (SPAs) with Endesa, Iberdrola and PT Pertamina.

The firm also operates the Sabine Pass export facility in Cameron Parish, Louisiana.