Golar LNG Reports Q3 2024 Financial Highlights and Future Goals

Financial Highlights and Future Prospects for Golar LNG

Highlights and Subsequent Events

• Final Investment Decision for MK II FLNG Project.
• Definitive agreements secured with Pan American Energy for 20-year FLNG deployment in Argentina.
• Notice of strong progress in FLNG commercial opportunities.
• Agreed on a commercial reset of contract mechanisms with BP for FLNG Gimi.
• FLNG Hilli continues to lead in operational excellence.
• Golar reports a Q3 net loss of $36 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of $59 million.
• Adjusted EBITDA backlog approximates $11 billion.
• $300 million raised through a five-year senior unsecured bond issuance.
• Dividend of $0.25 per share has been declared for the quarter.

The FLNG Hilli has achieved remarkable success in Q3, generating $73 million in distributable adjusted EBITDA, with Golar's share being $68 million, and is currently working on its 122nd LNG cargo export.

FLNG Gimi's Status Update

With the commercial reset reached, Golar LNG is positioned to receive approximately $220 million in pre-COD compensation over 2024 and 2025, of which about $130 million is expected to be invoiced in 2024. Already, $78 million has been collected this year. This compensation will be deferred on the balance sheet, net of $110 million in liquidated damages settled with BP.

The collaborative agreement with BP and Kosmos Energy has initiated the gas introduction to the FLNG Gimi, marking the start of the commissioning phase. We're optimistic about achieving the Commercial Operations Date within the first half of 2025, which would commence a 20-year operational agreement and unlock approximately $3 billion in adjusted EBITDA backlog.

Business Development and Future Deployment

In mid-2024, Golar and PAE solidified contracts for a significant 20-year FLNG deployment in Argentina, targeting the Vaca Muerta shale formation. This venture aims to kick off LNG exports by 2027, contingent upon satisfying regulatory conditions including export licenses and environmental assessments set to be finalized by early 2025. The FLNG Hilli has been reserved for this project.

This project could generate an estimated annual adjusted EBITDA of around $300 million. Golar also plans to pursue additional projects in other lucrative regions across the Americas, West Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, utilizing its unique competitive advantages as a premier FLNG service provider.

Operational Efficiency and Future Goals

In September 2024, Golar signed an EPC agreement with CIMC Raffles for the conversion of its first MK II FLNG, expecting operational readiness by Q4 of 2027. The decision to expedite this project signifies Golar's responsiveness to emerging opportunities in the market for FLNG solutions, as well as its strategic advantage in a constrained shipyard environment.

Golar has also secured an option for a second MK II conversion, indicating ongoing confidence in sector demand and future vessel capacity needs.

Financial Summary and Stock Performance

As of Q3, Golar has 104.4 million shares outstanding, with a declared dividend of $0.25 per share effective in early December. The ongoing share buyback strategy remains active with $74.1 million left from the initial $150 million program.

In terms of financial performance, Golar’s total debt plummeted to $1.465 billion, supported by a cash reserve totaling $807 million as of September 30, 2024. The company remains in a healthy liquidity position, which is vital for navigating the ever-evolving energy market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Golar LNG's key financial highlights for Q3 2024?

Golar reported a net loss of $36 million and an adjusted EBITDA of $59 million, along with a significant adjusted EBITDA backlog estimated at $11 billion.

What is the current status of the FLNG Gimi project?

The project is expecting to achieve its Commercial Operations Date in early 2025, paving the way for substantial earnings and operational commencement.

How does Golar view its future deployment capabilities?

Golar is optimistic about its potential to lead in FLNG deployments, particularly in new regions, with contracts secured for long-term operations like the one with PAE.

What are Golar’s strategies for managing debt and liquidity?

Golar's strategy includes maintaining a robust cash position, leveraging bond issuances, and executing share buybacks to enhance shareholder value.

How is Golar addressing operational challenges in the market?

By focusing on strategic partnerships and innovative deployment solutions, Golar aims to navigate industry challenges effectively while capitalizing on its market-leading operational performance.

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