Rio Grande LNG: Request to Extend Non-FTA LNG Export Commencement Deadline

The U.S. Department of Energy's Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office (HGEO), formerly known as the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM), has published a notice regarding a request filed on February 27, 2026 by Rio Grande LNG, LLC, Rio Grande LNG Train 4, LLC, and Rio Grande LNG Train 5, LLC (collectively, the RGLNG Entities). The RGLNG Entities are seeking an amendment to their existing DOE authorization (DOE/FE Order No. 4492, as amended) to export domestically produced liquefied natural gas (LNG) to non-free trade agreement (non-FTA) countries. Specifically, they are requesting an extension of their current export commencement deadline, meaning they need more time before they are required to begin exporting LNG under their existing authorization. The Rio Grande LNG Terminal, located in Cameron County, Texas, is currently under construction. The request was filed under the Natural Gas Act (NGA), which governs the authorization of natural gas exports from the United States. DOE is required to publish such notices to allow for public comment before making a decision on the request.

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