North American LNG exports set for massive expansion

North America is on track to almost double its liquefied natural gas (LNG) export capacity by 2028. Thanks to new projects and expansion plans, the US, Canada, and Mexico are building more LNG facilities to meet growing global demand. This surge is making North America a key player in the worldwide energy market.

For years, the US has been a major exporter of LNG. Several LNG facilities are already running, while others are under construction or being expanded. Now, Mexico and Canada are stepping up their efforts, bringing their own LNG plants online. With these new additions, the continent will be able to supply even more natural gas to countries around the world.

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Export Capacity to Rise Sharply

According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), North America’s LNG export capacity is expected to increase from about 85 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 181 mtpa by 2028. This growth highlights how important the region has become in supplying the world’s energy needs.

Recent reports from Riviera, which tracks energy developments, suggest that the final numbers could be even higher. In October 2024, the combined LNG facilities in the US, Canada, and Mexico had a nominal capacity of 132.8 mtpa. However, many of these facilities are not running at their full capacity yet.

New Projects and Future Potential

Many more LNG projects are currently being planned, proposed, or expanded across North America. Riviera estimates that an additional 254.8 mtpa could come online in the coming years if all proposed projects move forward. These developments include new plants as well as expansions of existing facilities.

The US remains at the forefront with the most active projects, but Mexico and Canada are becoming increasingly important in the market. Mexico, in particular, is benefiting from its strategic location, which makes it easier to export LNG to both North and South America, as well as Europe and Asia.

Conclusion

By 2028, North America’s LNG export capacity will nearly double, helping meet the global demand for natural gas. This rapid growth underscores the region’s growing importance in the global energy supply chain. With strong project pipelines and expanding facilities across the US, Canada, and Mexico, North America is set to play an even larger role in the future of energy exports.