Argent LNG names CB&I preferred EPC contractor for LNG tank package

Argent LNG and CB&I signed an MOU that makes CB&I the preferred EPC contractor for three 200,000-cubic-meter LNG storage tanks planned for Argent LNG’s export terminal at Port Fourchon, Louisiana. The deal moves the project closer to FEED, early works and a future lump-sum turnkey contract as Argent LNG targets construction in December 2027 and first LNG production in Q1 2030.

Why it matters: - The tank package is one of the most schedule-critical parts of Argent LNG’s proposed export terminal. - The three full-containment tanks would provide 600,000 cubic meters of LNG storage capacity for liquefaction, LNG handling and marine loading operations. - The MOU adds execution certainty for lenders, off-take partners and sovereign buyers assessing the project.

What happened: - Argent LNG and CB&I signed a memorandum of understanding naming CB&I as Argent LNG’s preferred EPC contractor for three LNG storage tanks. - Each tank is planned with a net working capacity of 200,000 cubic meters. - The tanks are planned for Argent LNG’s proposed 25 million tonne-per-year LNG export terminal at Port Fourchon, Louisiana. - The agreement also opens the path to a lump-sum turnkey EPC contract for the tank scope.

The details: - The MOU sets a framework for engineering, commercial and execution planning. - FEED and early works begin under the agreement. - Early works include engineering development, procurement planning and evaluation of critical-path materials and equipment. - The work is intended to support a targeted construction start in December 2027 and first LNG production in Q1 2030. - CB&I says it brings 68 years of LNG experience and has designed and built more than 260 LNG tanks worldwide. - CB&I points to industry firsts including the first double-wall LNG storage tank in Lake Charles, Louisiana, the first full-containment concrete LNG tank on Das Island in Abu Dhabi and the first full-containment all-steel LNG tank in the Philippines. - Argent LNG describes the tank package as a safety-critical and schedule-critical infrastructure scope.

Between the lines: - The move signals that Argent LNG is shifting from development toward construction readiness. - Full-containment LNG tanks are heavily scrutinized by project-finance lenders, technical advisors, insurers, regulators and long-term customers. - The partnership also supports Argent LNG’s Louisiana First procurement and economic-development strategy. - Argent LNG and CB&I plan to look for opportunities for Louisiana-based subcontractors, fabricators, suppliers and skilled craft labor where practical.

What's next: - Argent LNG and CB&I will continue detailed engineering and execution planning for the tank package. - The companies aim to make the scope construction-ready ahead of the planned December 2027 construction start. - Argent LNG is targeting final investment decision by 2027, construction commencement in December 2027 and first LNG production in Q1 2030. - The broader project remains under development at Port Fourchon and is being advanced through regulatory, engineering, commercial, financing and construction workstreams.

The bottom line: - The MOU gives Argent LNG a more concrete path to building one of the project’s most important pieces of infrastructure.