A massive LNG export terminal under construction near Lake Charles, Louisiana, is projected to produce more greenhouse gas emissions than any other in the United States. Owned by Woodside Energy, the facility is expected to release over 9.5 million tons annually once operational in 2029. The project has drawn praise for jobs and investment but criticism for worsening climate risks in a vulnerable state.
Woodside Energy, Australia's largest oil and gas producer, is building the Louisiana LNG terminal on a 1,000-acre site near Lake Charles, about 40 miles east of the existing Sabine Pass facility. The company acquired the site in 2024 from Tellurian, which had developed it as Driftwood LNG. Construction costs are nearing $18 billion, marking one of Louisiana's largest foreign investments, according to Governor Jeff Landry. At the September groundbreaking, Landry described it as “a great day for Louisiana and an unbelievable day for America.” The project promises thousands of temporary construction jobs and hundreds of permanent positions, plus increased local tax revenue, per the state's economic development agency. It is set to eclipse emissions from all existing and proposed US LNG terminals. Permitting documents filed with Louisiana regulators forecast over 9.5 million tons of greenhouse gases per year from liquefaction and operations—surpassing Sabine Pass's nearly 7 million tons and even a planned Alaska terminal's 8.6 million tons. Compared to Louisiana's industrial sites, it would rank just below the CF Industries complex in Donaldsonville, based on a Verite News analysis of state and federal records. Environmental groups warn of heightened risks. Anne Rolfes, executive director of the Louisiana Bucket Brigade, called the findings “really distressing,” adding, “As Louisiana becomes more vulnerable, we’re just adding to that vulnerability by producing more greenhouse gases. That’s insanity.” The state already grapples with rising seas and fiercer hurricanes, like the $14 billion damage from Hurricane Laura in 2020. Woodside emphasized emission reductions, stating its priority “is to avoid and reduce emissions.” The company requires decarbonization plans for projects, targeting a 30 percent cut by 2030 and net-zero by 2050. It promotes LNG as emitting about half the lifecycle emissions of coal-generated power.
