Golar LNG's Q1 2025: Navigating Contradictions in FLNG Projects and Timelines

FLNG unit ordering timeline, FLNG project options and commitments, FLNG project in Argentina are the key contradictions discussed in Golar LNG Limited's latest 2025Q1 earnings call.



Strong Financial Performance and Contract Backlog:
- Golar LNG Limited achieved total operating revenues of $63 million in Q1, with FLNG tariffs reaching $73 million, reflecting a significant increase in cash flow from its FLNG operations.
- The company has secured a strong EBITDA backlog of approximately $17 billion across its three FLNGs, providing long-term cash flow visibility that supports its strategic growth.
- This robust financial performance and contract backlog were driven by successful charter agreements and the company's strategic focus on FLNG as a service.

Argentina Project and Charters:
- Golar has secured 20-year charters for both the FLNG Hilli and the Mark II FLNG, with commencement expected by late 2027, providing long-term cash flow visibility.
- The Argentinian project includes fixed price gas sales agreements, ensuring a steady revenue stream for the company.
- The strategic importance of this project is highlighted by the significant upside potential due to the current state of the LNG market and potential increases in gas prices.

Divestiture and Refocusing Strategy:
- Golar has exited the LNG shipping sector by selling the Golar Arctic and its stake in Avenir LNG, focusing solely on FLNG as a service.
- This strategic move allowed the company to focus resources on its core FLNG business and capitalize on its expertise in this area.
- The divestiture has contributed to a solid balance sheet, with a net debt position of approximately $800 million and a fully delivered net debt to EBITDA ratio of around 2.8 times.

Capital Structure Optimization and Financing Initiatives:
- Golar signed a $1.2 billion debt facility to refinance the FLNG Gimi, reflecting the company's ability to leverage its strong financial position.
- The company is actively exploring debt optimization alternatives and has completed a rating process with key rating agencies, potentially enabling more efficient capital markets access.
- These initiatives are part of Golar's strategy to optimize its capital structure and recycle capital for sustainable growth in the FLNG sector.