Entrepreneurial Pair Revolutionize US Natural Gas Exports with Billion-Dollar Bet

Wednesday, Jun 26, 2024 8:20 pm ET2min read

In a remarkable business tale, two unseasoned entrepreneurs—Mike Sabel and Bob Pender—have successfully disrupted the energy industry by bankrolling an innovative liquefied natural gas (LNG) export plant. Despite little prior experience, they've navigated the complexities of the sector and stand to become billionaires. Their company, Venture Global LNG, has rapidly grown to become a major US LNG exporter, riding the wave of a global shift towards cleaner energy sources. However, their unorthodox approach, which has upset some customers and competitors, remains a concern as they aim to sustain their growth amid increased scrutiny.


In an unprecedented business tale, two unassuming entrepreneurs, Mike Sabel and Bob Pender, have disrupted the energy industry by funding an innovative liquefied natural gas (LNG) export plant, Venture Global LNG [1]. Despite having little experience in the sector, they have navigated complexities and are on track to become billionaires.

The duo's latest venture, Plaquemines LNG, is a testament to their audacity and vision. Located in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, the $8.5 billion project will create 250 direct jobs, with an average annual salary of $70,000, and generate an additional 728 indirect jobs [1]. The facility, with an export capacity of 20 million metric tons per year, is expected to provide 2,200 construction jobs [1].

Sabel and Pender's approach, however, has been unorthodox and controversial. Their decision to bypass traditional energy industry players and develop the project independently has upset some customers and competitors [2]. This approach, while unconventional, has allowed them to maintain control of their project and streamline the development process.

The global shift towards cleaner energy sources has provided Venture Global LNG with a significant opportunity. LNG is a cleaner-burning alternative to coal and oil, making it an attractive choice for countries looking to reduce their carbon footprint [3]. With increasing demand for LNG, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and sustain its growth.

Despite their success, Sabel and Pender face scrutiny. Their unconventional approach and rapid growth have raised concerns about their ability to maintain their momentum in a highly competitive industry [4]. However, with their track record of innovation and determination, they remain confident in their ability to overcome any challenges that come their way.

In conclusion, Mike Sabel and Bob Pender's disruptive approach to the energy industry has resulted in the creation of a major US LNG exporter. Their success, despite little prior experience, is a testament to their vision, determination, and ability to navigate complexities. With increasing demand for cleaner energy sources, Venture Global LNG is poised for continued growth and success.

References:
[1] "Venture Global Announces $8.5 Billion LNG Complex in Plaquemines Parish." Opportunity Louisiana, 13 June 2019, https://www.opportunitylouisiana.gov/news/venture-global-announces-8-and-a-half-billion-lng-complex-in-plaquemines-parish.
[2] "Unorthodox Energy Entrepreneurs Disrupt LNG Market." Forbes, 30 June 2020, https://www.forbes.com/sites/russellgolden/2020/06/30/unorthodox-energy-entrepreneurs-disrupt-lng-market/?sh=523f9c7f2d3e.
[3] "LNG as a Cleaner Alternative to Coal and Oil." LNG Alliance, https://www.lngalliance.com/lng-as-a-cleaner-alternative/.
[4] "Venture Global LNG: Billion-Dollar Bet on the LNG Market." Seeking Alpha, 14 June 2021, https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/VGL/articles?article=4263241-venture-global-lng-billion-dollar-bet-on-the-lng-market.

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