QatarEnergy's North Field West LNG Project Startup Delayed to 2031

Construction partners lined up to reach 142 Mt/y export capacity by next decade.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

QatarEnergy's North Field West LNG project startup has been pushed back to 2031, according to the latest updates. The project, led by construction partner Technip, aims to reach an export capacity of 142 million metric tons per year by the next decade.

Why it matters

This delay in the North Field West LNG project startup is significant, as Qatar is a major global supplier of liquefied natural gas. The project's eventual completion will help meet growing worldwide demand for LNG, particularly in Asia.

The details

The North Field West LNG project is part of Qatar's broader efforts to expand its natural gas production and export capabilities. Technip has been selected as the lead construction partner, and the project is on track to reach its targeted 142 Mt/y export capacity by the early 2030s.

  • The North Field West LNG project startup is now set for 2031.
  • The project aims to reach 142 Mt/y export capacity by the next decade.

The players

QatarEnergy

The state-owned oil and gas company of Qatar, responsible for the North Field West LNG project.

Technip

The lead construction partner selected for the North Field West LNG project.

Jacob Dick

A senior editor at NGI covering LNG, who previously reported on business and oil and gas in Southeast Texas.

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What’s next

The North Field West LNG project will continue construction over the next several years, with the goal of reaching its full 142 Mt/y export capacity by the early 2030s.

The takeaway

The delay in the North Field West LNG project startup highlights the challenges and complexities involved in developing large-scale energy infrastructure projects, but Qatar's commitment to expanding its natural gas export capabilities remains strong.