A $200 Billion LNG deal: The Department of Energy and Department of the Interior have announced the finalisation of four long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) agreements between American producers and Japan’s JERA Co., Inc
The deals are expected to add over $200 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product and support more than 50,000 American jobs.
Four 20-year LNG agreements finalised
The agreements involve the purchase of up to 5.5 million tons of American LNG per year over the next two decades. They include signed contracts with NextDecade Corporation and Commonwealth LNG, as well as preliminary heads of agreement with Sempra Infrastructure and Cheniere Marketing LLC. All exports will originate from the Gulf Coast, further solidifying the region’s role as a key hub for global LNG supply.
Strengthening U.S.-Japan energy ties
The deals highlight a growing energy partnership between the United States and Japan. As Japan’s largest power generation company, JERA’s agreement not only supports U.S. jobs and infrastructure investment but also strengthens energy security for both nations. It reaffirms the United States’ position as a top global LNG exporter and reflects the trust international buyers place in American energy producers.
Part of the Trump administration’s energy dominance agenda
Under this agenda, regulatory hurdles that previously slowed down LNG export projects have been rolled back. The Department of Energy has resumed approvals for LNG exports to countries without free trade agreements, boosting international access to U.S. energy resources.
In total, the Department of Energy, under Secretary Chris Wright, has approved over 106 million tons per annum of non-FTA LNG export capacity, more than the current total capacity of the world’s second-largest exporter.
Interior department unlocks offshore energy potential
Alongside LNG developments, the Department of the Interior is ramping up offshore energy production in the Gulf of America. Recent geological studies indicate the area holds 7.15 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, a 22.6% increase in recoverable reserves. To stimulate further investment, the Interior Department has introduced new financial assurance rules that free up billions in capital for exploration, leasing, and drilling activities.
Earlier this year, the department also disbursed over $353 million in energy revenues to Gulf Coast states and their local governments, further reinforcing the economic value of American energy production.
Infrastructure expansion made it easier
To facilitate the rapid expansion of LNG export capacity, President Trump’s proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill” aims to expedite permitting for critical infrastructure projects. This legislation is expected to remove bottlenecks and streamline approval processes for LNG terminals and other key facilities, enabling quicker project launches and reducing red tape.
These newly finalised LNG agreements mark a major milestone for U.S. energy policy. They promise substantial economic benefits at home and strengthen global energy partnerships abroad. With increased investment, job creation, and international influence, the U.S. is positioning itself as a reliable and dominant force in the global energy landscape.
