Egypt Daily News – Egypt is postponing the delivery of several liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments due to delays in bringing its newest import terminals online, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Individuals with knowledge of the situation, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the information, said that a few shipments initially scheduled for arrival in July have now been rescheduled for next month. The sources emphasized that the delays are not expected to have a significant or recurring impact on the country’s energy supply.
Egypt, the Arab world’s most populous nation, has recently transitioned into a major LNG importer following a decline in domestic gas production and a sharp rise in domestic consumption, particularly during the summer peak demand season.
Major LNG Deals Signed Amid Energy Pressures
In an effort to secure energy supplies, the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS) finalized major LNG contracts last month with key global suppliers, including Saudi Aramco, Trafigura Group, and Vitol Group. These deals, which begin in July and extend up to two and a half years, are part of Egypt’s broader strategy to stabilize its energy market amid mounting internal demand.
Despite the rescheduling of certain shipments, incoming LNG volumes remain in line with recent monthly averages, according to vessel tracking data compiled by Bloomberg. At present, Egypt is relying solely on its operational floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU), the Hoegh Galleon, to handle LNG imports.
New Import Terminals Face Infrastructure Delays
To boost its import capacity, Egypt has leased two additional FSRUs—Energos Power and Energos Eskimo. While both vessels have already arrived in the country, neither has begun receiving shipments. Government authorities have reportedly issued directives to accelerate the integration of the units into the national gas infrastructure, yet logistical and technical challenges persist.
According to another source familiar with the matter, the two new terminals are unlikely to be operational before the end of July, as critical onshore infrastructure remains incomplete.
Gas Strategy Under Scrutiny
The delay highlights Egypt’s ongoing struggle to meet its growing energy needs during the high-demand summer months. With power consumption spiking amid soaring temperatures, the timely activation of new gas infrastructure is seen as crucial to preventing shortages and ensuring the stability of electricity generation.
Egypt’s push to diversify import sources and fast-track infrastructure projects reflects a broader effort to navigate a rapidly evolving energy landscape, where regional competition and domestic needs continue to intensify.
