- NextDecade partners with Baker Hughes to supply equipment and maintenance for five new liquefaction units at the Rio Grande LNG terminal, adding 18 million tonnes per year to its capacity.
- The expansion aims to boost U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, addressing rising global demand, particularly from Europe and Asia.
- Baker Hughes will provide advanced gas turbines and compressors to ensure operational efficiency and long-term maintenance services for reliable performance.
NextDecade Corporation has agreed with Baker Hughes to supply equipment and provide maintenance services for its Rio Grande LNG terminal expansion. The deal covers adding five new liquefaction units, known as trains 4 to 8, which will boost the terminal’s capacity by around 18 million tonnes annually.
Baker Hughes will deliver high-efficiency gas turbines and refrigerant compressors and provide long-term maintenance for the supplied equipment. This agreement strengthens NextDecade’s plan to expand U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports as global demand rises, mainly from Europe and Asia.
NextDecade nears final investment decisions on trains 4 and 5, with construction set to begin soon. The company has also initiated regulatory processes for trains 6 to 8. The expanded terminal will enhance U.S. LNG export capacity, addressing global demand and improving energy security, especially in Europe, amid geopolitical tensions.
Baker Hughes will provide advanced technology to enhance the Rio Grande LNG terminal’s efficiency and reliability, which is crucial for maintaining consistent operations. The company will also oversee ongoing maintenance to ensure smooth equipment functioning and reduce the risk of industrial disruptions.
The Rio Grande LNG terminal already supports its first three liquefaction units. Expanding to eight trains will significantly increase output and position the U.S. as a stronger player in the global LNG market; NextDecade plans to progressively integrate the new units, aligning them with growing international demand.
As the company progresses, it will focus on final regulatory approvals and formalising commercial and financial agreements. The collaboration with Baker Hughes represents a significant step in achieving the company’s long-term goals and expanding U.S. influence in the global energy landscape.
NextDecade is driving the project forward amid strong international LNG demand, particularly in Europe and Asia, where energy security remains a pressing concern. The expansion will support this demand by boosting U.S. exports and improving global LNG access. The company’s ability to finalise agreements and execute operations will prove key to the project’s success.
Expanding capacity at the Rio Grande LNG terminal, NextDecade will contribute to global energy security while offering significant economic benefits. The company positions itself as a leader in the LNG sector, with Baker Hughes providing the advanced technology necessary for efficient and reliable operations.
NextDecade’s decision to integrate cutting-edge equipment and ensure reliable maintenance reflects its commitment to meeting growing energy needs and securing a strong position in the competitive LNG industry. With favourable regulatory conditions and successful execution, the expansion will significantly impact U.S. LNG export capacity and global energy supply, addressing the increasing demand for secure and reliable energy sources.
NextDecade’s partnership with Baker Hughes highlights the critical role of advanced technology and reliable maintenance in large-scale energy projects. The project aims to elevate U.S. LNG exports while enhancing global energy access, driving international energy security forward.