LNG: Powering progress today and tomorrow

If you’re like me, you’ve probably heard a lot of talk about the future of energy — what it could look like and what it should look like.

But the future isn’t something we wait for. It’s something we build. And at ExxonMobil, we’re building it with liquefied natural gas (LNG).

So, what does LNG mean to the broader energy landscape? Let’s take a look.

Meeting the world’s growing energy needs

The world’s population is growing, and fast.

We estimate about 1.5 billion more people will inhabit the planet by 2050, putting the global population on track to reach nearly 10 billion. Most of that growth will happen in developing countries, as they grow their economies and consume more energy. In fact, we expect developing countries will need 25% more energy in 2050 compared to today.

Demand for natural gas, including LNG, is expected to increase by 20% because it’s affordable, abundant, versatile and has lower CO₂ emissions than coal.

Why LNG matters now

LNG plays a key role in helping countries displace high-emitting coal, enhance energy security and support renewable energy deployment.

There’s been some chatter about potential oversupply, but gas remains a valuable resource. As new supply comes online, it can replace other energy sources and offer lower emissions and the flexibility the market needs.

Looking ahead, we expect LNG demand to increase by about 3% annually through 2050, helping ease pressure from limited supply growth in some regions.

While gas demand surged over the last decade, it’s now tracking below earlier projections, especially in Europe and parts of the developing world, due to supply disruptions and higher prices.

Still, history shows that when new LNG supply comes online, demand tends to follow. Natural gas continues to be a reliable, lower-emissions option that can adapt to shifting energy needs.

That’s today’s story. By 2050, natural gas is expected to fuel 20% of the world’s industrial activity and electricity demand.

The question is, who’s ready to deliver?

Delivering LNG with scale and reliability

At ExxonMobil, we’re not just part of the LNG story. We’re helping write it.

From production to delivery, our integrated approach and global portfolio ensure reliable supply and strong returns.

It’s our people and experience that make the difference.

We’re developing four world-class LNG projects and, by 2030, expect to double our supply compared to 2020.

That means more than 40 million metric tons annually, reaching more markets and meeting more demand.

Policy, partnerships and progress

Our priorities don’t shift with political winds.

We remain committed to U.S. energy security, and we appreciate the administration’s support for LNG. We’re actively engaged in conversations about how we can best support their policy goals, just as we’ve done with previous administrations.

We aim to be a resource and a partner, offering insights and solutions that help shape a more secure and affordable energy future.

The road ahead

LNG is more than a fuel. It’s a force for progress.

It’s helping power economies, provide reliable energy to communities around the world and even reduce emissions. And at ExxonMobil, we’re proud to be a leading LNG producer.

The future of energy is being built today. And LNG is at the heart of it.

Peter Clarke is senior vice president for LNG at ExxonMobil International Limited.