Freeport LNG, the operator of the three-train 15 mtpa liquefaction plant, is now expecting to restart operations at its facility in Texas in January.
The LNG terminal operator closed the liquefaction and export facility some six months ago following an incident that took place on June 8.
Earlier this month, Freeport LNG again delayed the restart of the plant targeting initial production at the facility by the end of this year.
Freeport LNG said in a update on Friday that it continues to make “notable progress” on its path towards the restart of liquefaction operations.
“As of December 23rd, the reconstruction work necessary to commence initial operations is substantially complete, and the company is submitting responses to the last remaining questions included in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s December 12 data request,” it said.
“Given the time needed for the regulatory agencies to review the company’s responses and to seek any necessary clarification, Freeport LNG now does not anticipate commencing the initial restart of its liquefaction facility until the second half of January 2023,” the LNG terminal operator said.
BP, Jera, Osaka Gas, SK E&S, as well as TotalEnergies have long-term contracts with Freeport LNG.
Besides the three trains, Freeport LNG is also planning to add another production unit with a capacity of 5 mtpa, but it has not yet taken a final investment decision.
In October, US energy regulators granted Freeport LNG’s request for a 26-month extension of time to build the fourth liquefaction train.