In 2024, the province of Río Negro established itself as a key player in the future of liquefied natural gas (LNG) industrialization and export in Argentina. Two fundamental projects are underway in the region, marking a significant milestone both provincially and nationally.
YPF confirmed the signing of agreements with several potential international buyers and advanced in the engineering of the largest pipeline in the country, which will connect the Vaca Muerta region with Punta Colorada. According to Andrea Confini, secretary of Energy and Environment, the LNG project will not only open international markets for Argentine gas but will also strengthen the country's energy matrix, where Río Negro will play a fundamental role in this transformation.
The PAE and Golar FLNG project, which will include the liquefaction vessel "Hilli Episeyo," received significant momentum following the public hearing held in December in San Antonio Este. Judith Jiménez, secretary of Environment and Climate Change, pointed out that the role of the state is crucial to ensure sustainable development in this area.
The Argentina LNG project, which anticipates an investment of 30 billion dollars, is projected to have a liquefaction plant in Sierra Grande. With an annual production capacity of 2.4 million tons of LNG, it represents an initial investment of 2.9 billion dollars over 10 years.
"We are committed to ensuring that this project develops with the maximum environmental guarantees," emphasized Jiménez. Authorities are evaluating the Environmental Impact Study presented by Southern Energy, considering the contributions gathered in the public hearing held, and the final resolution is expected to be made in the first quarter of 2025.
In summary, Río Negro is positioned as a strategic hub for LNG export in Latin America, combining economic development and environmental responsibility in a scenario that marks a significant milestone in the energy industry of the region.
