Skip to main content

Article

How US LNG is transforming global energy security

The US LNG industry is growing rapidly, boosting global energy security with infrastructure, flexible contracts, and risk management.

In recent years, the US has become the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), with exports projected to grow by 10% annually through 2030 as energy companies double their LNG production capacity. This rapid growth presents several significant opportunities and strategic advantages for the industry. 

US LNG as a strategic diversification tool

The US now accounts for roughly 25% of global gas production and supplies about 27% of worldwide electricity generation from gas-fired plants. This significant contribution underscores US LNG’s importance as a reliable energy source in a landscape marked by geopolitical uncertainties that can disrupt supply chains, drive price volatility, and alter trading patterns. Furthermore, the often short-term and destination-flexible nature of US LNG contracts typically allows importers to respond timely to market shifts, thereby reducing supply risks and enhancing global energy security.

Infrastructure investment as a growth catalyst

US LNG industry leaders are spearheading a wave of infrastructure expansion, including new liquefaction facilities, pipelines and import terminals across the US. These investments not only increase capacity but also foster technological innovation and economic growth. For the US LNG industry, this creates opportunities for strategic partnerships, project financing, and technological leadership. The US LNG industry is estimated to have contributed over US$400 billion to US GDP since 2016 with a projected US$1.3 trillion boost through 2040.

Risk management as a competitive advantage

The expansion of LNG infrastructure may introduce operational risks that require sophisticated mitigation strategies. Insurance solutions that include delay in start-up (DSU) and business interruption (BI) coverage can be key tools for safeguarding investments. Proactive risk management can enhance project resilience, reduce financial uncertainties, and support long-term profitability.

Navigating policy and geopolitical dynamics

The resurgence of US LNG is partly influenced by evolving government policies and geopolitical factors. Staying ahead requires agility in navigating regulatory environments, export policies, and international relations. Strategic foresight and adaptive planning can help companies to capitalize on emerging opportunities and mitigate potential disruptions.

Global significance and market expansion

The momentum of the US LNG industry is creating investment opportunities as infrastructure expansion and technological innovation pave the way for strategic investments, joint ventures, and leadership in emerging energy solutions. To support these developments, operational resilience is crucial; implementing advanced risk mitigation and insurance strategies can safeguard assets and promote business continuity while mitigating potential risks.

Bolstering the industry’s resilience

The US LNG resurgence presents a pivotal opportunity for the insurance industry to actively support infrastructure development, risk management, and sustainability initiatives. The dynamic nature of the LNG industry calls for a comprehensive approach, including:   

  • Project financing: In addition to mitigating risk, effective risk transfer and risk management for windstorm, contingent business interruption, and supply chain disruption, can result in greater confidence among investors and facilitate improved access to capital for LNG projects.
  • Operational resilience: Insurance can protect against operational delays and technical risks, helping projects stay on schedule and maintain financial stability.

By supporting infrastructure development and managing complex risks, the insurance industry can help unlock the full potential of US LNG — driving global energy security and paving the way for a more stable, resilient energy future.

For more information, please reach out to your Marsh representative.

Our people

Ali Rizvi

Ali Rizvi

Global LNG Leader, Marsh

Michael Gaudet

Michael Gaudet

US Energy & Power Industry Leader, Energy & Power Specialty

Ryan Weber

Ryan Weber

Senior Vice President, Senior Sales Executive

Chip Hardie

Chip Hardie

Managing Director, Client Executive & Distribution Leader

Related insights