Samsung given greenlight to build US's first floating LNG facility

Samsung Heavy Industries has received approval to begin construction of the first floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility in the United States, marking a significant milestone for both the South Korean shipbuilder and the emerging North American FLNG sector.

The company announced on June 4 that it had been cleared to proceed with construction of the first FLNG unit for the Delfin LNG project off the coast of Louisiana, as Korean media reports.

The $2.9 billion Delfin project is the first FLNG development in the United States and is widely viewed as a potential blueprint for future LNG export projects in North America.

Unlike traditional LNG export terminals, which require large-scale onshore liquefaction facilities, Delfin will utilize multiple floating LNG units built to identical specifications. The model is intended to enhance operational flexibility while lowering capital costs and reducing development risks.

The project is also notable for its ownership structure. Rather than being led by a major international oil company or a state-owned energy producer, Delfin is being developed by a private company working directly with Samsung Heavy Industries as the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor. Industry analysts say the approach could open the door to broader adoption of FLNG technology.

Designed as a hybrid between nearshore and offshore FLNG concepts, the facility aims to combine cost efficiency with operational reliability. It will accommodate approximately 120 personnel and feature self-propulsion capabilities, enabling it to relocate in the event of hurricanes or other severe weather conditions.

Samsung Heavy Industries said the project will be the first FLNG development for which it assumes full responsibility for the entire EPC scope.

“The Delfin project is the first FLNG project for which Samsung Heavy Industries will independently execute the full EPC scope,” a company official said. “We intend to lead the next stage of growth in the FLNG market through competitive costs, optimized designs and reliable project execution.”

By Nazrin Sadigova