Woodside targets Q4 Scarborough LNG cargo as project reaches 99% completion

Woodside’s Scarborough and Pluto Train 2 developments were 99% complete at the end of the third quarter of 2026, with the first LNG cargo still scheduled for the fourth quarter, Offshore Energy reported. The completion figure excludes modifications to Pluto Train 1. Woodside said the developments remained within budget as commissioning and start-up work continued on the floating production unit and subsea production system.

Well clean-up and gas exports to pressurise the trunkline progressed, with Woodside reporting results consistent with its reservoir and well performance expectations. Mechanical runs of all Pluto Train 2 compressors were completed, and Scarborough gas entered the train’s gas pre-treatment section after the quarter ended. Work on the cold section continued ahead of liquefaction. Separately, modifications enabling Pluto Train 1 to process Scarborough gas advanced following its second-quarter maintenance campaign, with the final module delivered and hook-up and integration under way.

In Mexico, Trion was 71% complete at quarter-end and remained within budget, according to the Woodside update covered by Offshore Energy. Ten of the planned 24 wells had been drilled and the first subsea tree installed. Delivery of subsea equipment and the disconnectable turret mooring buoy to Mexico allowed offshore installation to begin. Fabrication of the floating production unit reached 96%, while construction of the floating storage and offloading vessel progressed, including integration of its mooring turret into the hull. First oil remains targeted for 2028.

Louisiana LNG was 32% complete overall and also remained within budget, with first LNG targeted for 2029. Construction advanced on marine facilities, site works and storage tanks. Concrete work on the first LNG tank’s wall reached 50%. Train 1 stood at 41% completion, while Trains 2 and 3 reached 27% and 22%, respectively. Above-ground piping installation began for Train 2, and the first concrete foundation was poured for Train 3.

Woodside said discussions continued with prospective equity participants and LNG buyers. According to Offshore Energy, the company was addressing structural steel supply difficulties linked to Middle East disruptions by using alternative logistics routes and fabrication sources. Chief executive Liz Westcott also reported quarterly production of 46.2 million barrels of oil equivalent, up 12% from the preceding quarter following completion of the Pluto LNG and NWS turnarounds.