U.S. Authorized LNG Exports to Morocco in September
The Department of Energy approved Sustain Energy LLC to ship natural gas to Morocco through 2050.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Oil and Gas
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On September 11, 2026, the U.S. Department of Energy issued Order No. 5473, authorizing Sustain Energy LLC to export liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Morocco. This authorization allows for annual exports of up to 51.75 billion cubic feet of natural gas.
Why it matters
The move supports Morocco's ongoing efforts to expand its domestic gas infrastructure and diversify its energy supply sources. The authorization remains in effect until December 31, 2050, providing a long-term framework for this energy trade.
The Department of Energy authorized the export of 51.75 billion cubic feet of LNG annually using 17 existing small-scale liquefaction and peaking facilities. Operations must commence within two years of the order to non-FTA countries.
The players
Sustain Energy LLC
This Texas-based company is the entity authorized to export liquefied natural gas to Morocco.
U.S. Department of Energy
This federal executive department is responsible for energy policy and the authorization of natural gas exports.
The details
Sustain Energy LLC will source its supply from 17 existing small-scale liquefaction and peaking facilities across the U.S. The company intends to transport the gas in ISO containers via truck to marine terminals for international shipment.
Timeline
2004: Morocco signed a free trade agreement with the U.S.
2006: The U.S.-Morocco free trade agreement took effect.
September 11, 2026: The Department of Energy issued Order No. 5473.
December 31, 2050: The export authorization expires.
Market Landscape
This export authorization follows the pattern of energy cooperation established since the 2006 U.S.-Morocco free trade agreement took effect. It reflects a broader shift toward diversifying regional energy supplies through small-scale infrastructure solutions.
This authorization helps stabilize Morocco's energy supply chain, potentially reducing volatility in regional utility pricing over the coming decades. Customers may see increased energy reliability as the nation expands its infrastructure to accommodate new imports.
The takeaway
This long-term agreement highlights the growing role of small-scale liquefaction technology in connecting niche energy markets. By utilizing existing infrastructure, companies can bypass the need for massive new terminal construction to meet international demand.
Further reading
Learn more about global market trends in the Oil and Gas section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Morocco World News.
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