Sempra Extends ECA LNG Commissioning After Compressor Damage

Sempra Infrastructure has extended commissioning at its ECA LNG Phase 1 project in Mexico after discovering damage to refrigerant compressors, while construction continues on schedule at Port Arthur LNG.

(P&GJ) — Sempra Infrastructure has extended the commissioning process for its ECA LNG Phase 1 export facility in Ensenada, Mexico, after discovering damage to refrigerant compressors during planned inspections following the plant's first LNG cargo shipment.

The one-train liquefaction facility achieved mechanical completion in December 2025, introduced feed gas in April 2026 and produced its first LNG in June before loading and exporting its inaugural cargo earlier this month.

Following the shipment, the facility was shut down for scheduled inspections, during which the compressor damage was identified. Sempra said the project is now expected to reach substantial completion in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to the completion of a root cause investigation and remediation work. Long-term LNG sales are expected to begin shortly after the project reaches substantial completion.

Despite the extended commissioning period, the company said it does not expect the issue to affect its projected earnings contribution for 2026 or 2027.

Meanwhile, construction remains on schedule and within budget at Port Arthur LNG Phases 1 and 2 in Texas. Combined, the two phases are expected to add 26 MMtpy of LNG export capacity. Sempra also said the Port Arthur Pipeline Louisiana Connector has entered service, while the associated LA Storage project remains on schedule to support natural gas deliveries to the export terminal.

Separately, Sempra said the planned sale of Ecogas México has received antitrust approval and is expected to close in August. The transaction is expected to generate approximately $500 million, with proceeds supporting the company's strategy of funding future energy infrastructure projects.