Argent LNG signs FEED contract with Tecnimont for Louisiana export project

Argent LNG has signed a front-end engineering design contract with Tecnimont USA for its 25 MTPA export facility at Port Fourchon, Louisiana. The deal advances permitting, engineering and a path toward EPC as the project targets first cargo in 2030.

Why it matters: - The FEED contract moves Argent LNG’s Port Fourchon project from planning toward execution. - The work supports key permitting steps needed before financing and construction can advance. - The project is designed as a 25 MTPA export facility in a hurricane-resilient Gulf Coast location.

What happened: - Argent LNG said Tecnimont USA signed the front-end engineering design contract for the company’s export facility at Port Fourchon, Louisiana. - The contract follows the cooperation agreement announced on 21 January 2026, which named Tecnimont as engineering and technology integrated services provider for the project. - Argent LNG and Tecnimont are targeting first cargo in 2030. - The project is expected to roll into EPC after FEED completion, final FERC approval and Argent LNG’s final investment decision.

The details: - The FEED scope includes engineering activities, project execution planning and documentation, schedule and cost estimates, safety and reliability studies, and integration of key technology packages. - Tecnimont will also support key permitting documentation and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission permitting process. - The FEED is intended to define the project’s technical basis and improve execution certainty and bankability. - The facility will be built on a 900-acre site at Port Fourchon. - The planned export terminal has a total capacity of 25 million tonnes per annum. - Argent LNG says the site is located in one of the United States’ hurricane-resilient energy hubs. - Argent LNG holds long-term U.S. Department of Energy authorization to export 25 MTPA to Free Trade Agreement nations for 20 years under DOE/HGEO Order No. 5447. - Argent LNG’s non-FTA export application remains pending in Docket No. 26-28-LNG. - The project is moving through the FERC pre-filing process in Docket No. PF25-11. - Argent LNG says its technology and engineering consortium includes Tecnimont, Baker Hughes, CB&I, Honeywell UOP and ABB.

Between the lines: - The contract signals that Argent LNG is trying to reduce project risk before a final investment decision. - Permitting support is a key step because LNG export projects often hinge on regulatory clearance before lenders and offtakers commit fully. - MAIRE is using the project to deepen its presence in the U.S. LNG market, which remains a growth opportunity for engineering firms. - Jonathon Bass said the agreement moves Argent LNG “from vision to execution” and should give lenders, offtakers and partners more confidence in a “bankable, buildable project.” - Alessandro Bernini said the signing reflects confidence in Tecnimont’s engineering and project development capabilities.

What’s next: - Tecnimont will complete FEED work and support the permitting process. - Argent LNG will continue the FERC process and pursue final investment decision. - If those milestones are reached, the project is expected to move into EPC. - First cargo remains targeted for 2030.

The bottom line: - The deal is a material step for Argent LNG, but the project still depends on permitting, financing and a final investment decision before construction can begin.