~5-minute read
QatarEnergy, formerly known as Qatargas, is rapidly expanding its influence in the global liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector—not just as a producer, but as a maritime force. With its North Field Expansion Project set to increase production from 77 to 126 million tons per year by 2027, the company is reinforcing its position through the largest LNG fleet expansion program in history.
A Maritime Powerhouse
Currently, QatarEnergy’s LNG fleet includes over 70 advanced carriers, primarily Q-Flex and Q-Max vessels. These massive ships—some of the largest in the world—are responsible for transporting Qatar’s LNG to energy-hungry markets across Europe, Asia, and beyond. Rather than owning all these ships, QatarEnergy charters them through long-term agreements with global maritime partners such as Nakilat, MOL, Teekay, NYK Line, and others.
The Largest LNG Shipbuilding Program Ever
To meet future production and export goals, QatarEnergy has partnered with major shipbuilders from South Korea and China to construct over 100 new LNG carriers. These vessels, many equipped with dual-fuel engines (ME-GA/ME-GI) and boil-off gas recovery systems, are designed for fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Deliveries are expected to run through 2027.
A recent milestone in this expansion was the delivery of Al Tuwar, a 174,000-cubic-meter Q-Flex LNG carrier built by Hudong-Zhonghua in China. It's the first of three advanced vessels chartered to QatarEnergy under a joint venture involving China LNG Shipping International, NYK Line, K Line, and MISC Berhad.
A Word from Leadership
His Excellency Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and CEO of QatarEnergy, affirmed: "This program will play an important role in implementing QatarEnergy’s historic LNG shipping program, ensuring additional cleaner and reliable energy supplies to the world."
He also reiterated Qatar’s commitment to advancing energy security while promoting cleaner energy through innovative shipping solutions.
Future-Driven, Climate-Conscious
QatarEnergy’s fleet growth is more than a logistical necessity—it’s a strategic move in the global transition toward cleaner fuels. As demand for LNG rises as a bridge fuel in the energy transition, Qatar is positioning itself as a reliable, forward-thinking supplier.
The ships being built are not just larger—they’re smarter, greener, and aligned with the future of maritime sustainability. QatarEnergy is proving that scale, innovation, and environmental responsibility can coexist—and that investing in the future means investing in smarter infrastructure today.
Conclusion
QatarEnergy’s fleet expansion is a defining chapter in the story of modern energy. With each new vessel, Qatar is not just delivering LNG—it’s delivering hope for a cleaner, more reliable energy future. In a world seeking stable, low-carbon solutions, QatarEnergy is charting a bold, thoughtful course forward.
