It is widely accepted that 2014 presents a major challenge for the Global LNG industry.  “Sanction new supply projects now, or face years of pent up demand and a tight global market” says Pat Roberts, Independent Consultant & Associate Director – Gas for CWC Group.

150Mtpa of new LNG demand is expected to be developed by 2025, mostly in Asia, and with several existing LNG plants being old (or producing less than expected) and the final investment decisions for new supply running at around 30% of annual targets, Roberts concludes “we are heading for a supply crunch.”

Key challenges, Roberts identifies, are that new North American LNG supply developers are encountering a complex mix of regulatory, fiscal and energy politics at a country level; and interested LNG buyers (from Asia, Europe and even in the Americas) are grappling with long-term projections of delivered costs versus alternatives, as well as operational risks and rewards of LNG tolling models. 

There is no shortage of new projects under development (600Mtpa globally of which 407Mtpa is in North America) the Americas plays an important role in the global LNG business. However, stakeholders are taking their time to be comfortable with the changes involved with North America positioning itself as a major LNG exporter. 

The CWC World LNG Series: Americas Summit goes beyond a study of who is doing what, but looks at:  • Forces that are positively promoting LNG in the Americas • Operational and cost risks in managing feed gas supply to new North American projects  • Design and construction challenges for new plants• New regional demand emerging at country level, as well as new sectors such as transport• Trying to understand how the Americas will integrate into the global LNG context and the emerging trends

Through a line-up of renowned international speakers, the Summit provides delegates with the chance to identify new opportunities from companies including: Cheniere, YPF, Petrobras, Chubu Electric, Hoegh LNG, GTT, GNL Chile, Fluor, ABS and Tokyo Gas

In addition to gaining these updates, the Summit also offers important networking opportunities. LNG buyers and sellers from the region and other parts of the world can take part in the Pre-Summit Interactive Seminar led by Galway Group, the Welcome Drinks Reception, the Networking Roundtables hosted King & Spalding, the Texan-Themed Dinner hosted by Cheniere, plus lunches and coffee breaks. There is a unique opportunity to visit  Cheniere’s Sabine Pass terminal – the first facility in the US to be granted a liquefaction permit.