Woodside Energy Eyes $16B Louisiana LNG Stake Sale Amid Rising Global Demand

Woodside Energy Ltd (OTC:WOPEY, ASX:WDS) is in advanced talks to sell a 50% stake in its $16 billion Louisiana LNG project, according to Reuters. Potential buyers include Tokyo Gas Co (TYO:9531), JERA, MidOcean Energy (backed by Saudi Aramco, TADAWUL:2222), and U.S. pipeline giant Williams Companies Inc (NYSE:WMB).

With global LNG demand rising, especially amid Donald Trump's potential return to the U.S. presidency, the sale is seen as a strategic move. Increased U.S. LNG exports could ease trade tensions under a new administration. Woodside's project, once fully developed in four phases, aims to produce 27.6 million metric tonnes of LNG annually. CEO Meg O’Neill targets finalizing partner selection by March 2025, with the bidding window now closed.

All necessary permits are secured, and Woodside is negotiating liquefaction fees of $2.70 to $2.90 per mmBtu, slightly above current market rates. While Woodside has not publicly commented on the process, it has confirmed strong interest from high-quality investors.