Where Can You Build an LNG Plant? Exploring Viable Sites Across the U.S.

by Jonathan Bass

As the global demand for reliable and cleaner energy grows, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) continues to play a critical role in bridging energy security and transition needs. For companies eyeing long-term investments in LNG infrastructure, one of the most critical decisions is site selection. But where, exactly, are the viable locations to build an LNG plant in the United States?

The process of siting an LNG export facility involves rigorous consideration of multiple factors, including access to gas supply, pipeline infrastructure, proximity to deepwater ports, environmental permitting, and community engagement. Fortunately, a number of potential sites across the U.S. meet these criteria and are actively being evaluated or pursued for LNG development.

đź“Ť How Many Sites Are Available?

Based on current research and GIS mapping tools, over 20 potential U.S. sites are considered viable for new LNG development. These include both greenfield and brownfield locations, with most of them concentrated in:

  • Louisiana: Cameron Parish, Calcasieu Pass, Port Fourchon
  • Texas: Corpus Christi, Brownsville, Freeport, Port Arthur
  • Mississippi: Pascagoula
  • Florida: Jacksonville
  • Alaska: Nikiski and the North Slope
  • Oregon: Coos Bay (Jordan Cove site)

These locations benefit from a combination of natural gas access, deepwater ports, developed infrastructure, and in many cases, supportive state-level regulatory frameworks.

Key LNG Development Corridors

  1. Gulf Coast (Texas & Louisiana)
    The Gulf Coast remains the heart of U.S. LNG export infrastructure. It boasts well-developed midstream networks, experienced labor, and deepwater access. Developers like Argent LNG are investing in scalable modular designs to accelerate construction timelines and reduce environmental impact.

  2. East Coast (Florida & Georgia)
    While more limited than the Gulf Coast, the East Coast offers strategic proximity to European and Caribbean markets. Jacksonville, FL has emerged as a growing LNG bunkering and export hub.

  3. Pacific Northwest (Oregon & Washington)
    Projects in these regions face more regulatory and environmental hurdles, but they offer direct access to Asian markets. Jordan Cove has long been considered a prime site, though it has faced delays.

  4. Alaska
    With abundant natural gas resources and strategic proximity to Asia, Alaska holds long-term LNG potential. Sites like Nikiski are being studied for export readiness.

  5. Brownfield & Reuse Sites
    Repurposing former industrial or energy sites provides a cost-effective and environmentally strategic path for LNG buildouts, particularly in regions where infrastructure already exists.

Strategic Considerations

Developers must balance cost, regulatory certainty, and supply chain access when selecting a site. The recent DOE focus on streamlining approvals, coupled with emerging technologies and a shift toward modular construction, is helping accelerate timelines in qualified zones. Moreover, access to skilled labor and community support are increasingly key to successful execution.

Conclusion

With geopolitical uncertainty and the evolving global energy landscape, the race is on to secure and scale LNG capacity. Strategic site selection is no longer just a regulatory hurdle—it’s a foundational business decision. Whether you're an investor, policymaker, or energy developer, understanding where and how to build LNG infrastructure in the U.S. will define your role in the energy market of tomorrow.

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