Qatar has revealed ambitious plans to significantly increase output from the world's biggest natural gas field by expanding its capacity to 142 million tonnes per annum before 2030. The newly announced North Field expansion, known as North Field West, is set to add 16 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually to existing expansion initiatives.

Qatar's Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi shared the news at a press conference, highlighting that recent studies indicated substantial additional gas reserves in the North Field, estimated at 240 trillion cubic feet. This boost raises Qatar's gas reserves from 1,760 trillion cubic feet to over 2,000 trillion cubic feet.

The expansion project is expected to kick off promptly, with engineering works being initiated to ensure its completion within the specified timeline. QatarEnergy, the state-owned company headed by al-Kaabi, will spearhead the development of a new LNG project from the North Field's western sector, with a production capacity of approximately 16 million tonnes per annum.

The planned expansion is projected to elevate Qatar's production capacity by nearly 85% from current levels once operational. Qatar, already a major LNG producer alongside the United States, Australia, and Russia, is primed to meet the growing demand for gas in Asian markets such as China, Japan, and South Korea, as well as in Europe.

Following a string of long-term supply deals, including agreements with India's Petronet and US-based Excelerate Energy for LNG supply, Qatar remains a key player in the global LNG market. The intensifying competition for LNG, particularly in light of geopolitical events such as the conflict in Ukraine and the resulting shifts in gas supply dynamics, underscores the significance of Qatar's expansion plans and its strategic position in the energy sector.