YPF and the Italian company Eni have taken a decisive step toward the largest energy project in Argentina's history by signing the Final Technical Project Description (FTPD) of the joint plan to develop an internationally scaled Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant.
The agreement includes the production of 12 million tons of LNG per year and associated liquids, which would represent exports of up to USD 14 billion per year, marking a milestone for the country in terms of energy development and foreign currency generation.
An integrated plan connecting Vaca Muerta with the coast of Río Negro
This new stage includes the awarding of engineering designs for the floating liquefaction units, the gas treatment plants, and the pipeline that will connect Vaca Muerta with the coast of Río Negro, from where exports will be carried out.
The project positions Argentina as a reliable and competitive global energy supplier, strengthening its role in the international liquefied natural gas market.
YPF y Eni avanzan en el mayor proyecto de exportación de GNL en la historia argentina
Additionally, YPF and Eni plan to invite other leading companies in the global energy sector to join the initiative, consolidating an ecosystem of sustained investments and technological cooperation.
Strategic collaboration with Shell and long-term expansion
Meanwhile, YPF is working with Shell to integrate and scale the overall LNG project, aiming to increase production capacity to 18 million tons per year.
If this expansion is achieved, export projections would exceed USD 20 billion annually over the next two decades, multiplying the economic impact and consolidating Argentina's leadership in the LNG market.
Economic impact and job creation
The project will drive historic growth in Vaca Muerta's gas production, which will more than double its current level. According to estimates, the initiative will generate 50,000 direct and indirect jobs over the next five years, also doubling YPF's operational activity.
YPF y Eni avanzan en el mayor proyecto de exportación de GNL en la historia argentina
In addition to industrial development, the project will have positive effects on infrastructure, technology, workforce training, and exports, strengthening the national energy balance and foreign currency inflow.
Argentina, a new key player in the global energy market
With this alliance, YPF and Eni are consolidating a model of international cooperation and energy efficiency that positions Argentina among the world's leading LNG exporters.
The initiative not only reinforces the country's energy security but also projects it as a strategic partner for Europe and North America, in a global context where demand for natural gas continues to rise.
