(WO) — Argent LNG and the government of Albania have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) to evaluate development of an onshore LNG storage and regasification terminal on the Albanian coast with capacity of up to approximately 5 MMtpa.
The proposed terminal would serve primarily as a regional supply hub for the Western Balkans and Southeastern Europe rather than Albania’s domestic market. Plans call for the facility to receive, store and regasify LNG for distribution into neighboring markets.
The project is expected to connect with the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), Ionian Adriatic Pipeline (IAP) and Fier–Vlorë gas corridor, potentially providing an additional route for natural gas supplies across the region.
Argent said the infrastructure could also support gas deliveries to Ukraine through reverse-flow, swap and other regional market arrangements.
The agreement builds on MoUs Argent signed with Ukraine’s Naftogaz Group in July and Romania’s Transgaz in August as the company develops a regional supply network anchored by U.S.-sourced LNG.
Argent is developing a proposed 25-MMtpa LNG export terminal at Port Fourchon, Louisiana. Development of the Albanian facility would be coordinated with the company’s targeted first LNG cargo from Port Fourchon in 2030.
Under the latest MoU, Argent and Albania will establish a joint working group to evaluate potential sites, project feasibility, technical interconnections and financing.
“The development of significant LNG storage and regasification capacity in Albania would provide the region with greater flexibility in managing periods of high demand and potential supply disruptions,” said Enea Karakaçi, Albania’s minister of infrastructure and energy.
The MoU does not include binding supply, financing or construction commitments, which would require subsequent agreements between the parties.
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