North America liquefied natural gas export capacity reached 2.2 billion cubic feet per day on the Pacific Coast after Energia Costa Azul shipped its initial cargo from Phase 1 on July 8, according to the project developer.
Energia Costa Azul Triples Mexico’s LNG Export Capacity
Energia Costa Azul became the second LNG export facility in Mexico following the launch of its Phase 1 terminal. According to the project developer, the single-train facility adds 0.4 billion cubic feet per day of nominal export capacity. This addition triples Mexico’s total LNG export footprint. Situated on the Pacific Coast alongside LNG Canada, the facility shortens maritime shipping routes to Asian importers.
Strait of Hormuz Disruptions Drive Record U.S. Petroleum Exports
International petroleum markets experienced persistent disruptions to crude oil and product flows through the Strait of Hormuz during the second quarter of 2026, according to Bloomberg L.P. data. These bottlenecks caused higher and more volatile crude prices, prompting international buyers to seek alternative supplies. Consequently, U.S. refinery margins, production, and exports surged. U.S. petroleum exports hit a record 13.6 million barrels per day in April—a 15% jump over March—according to Weekly Petroleum Status Report figures.
Inventories and Cross-Border Grid Transfers Shift Across North America
U.S. commercial crude oil inventories rose by 2.0 million barrels to 411.7 million barrels for the week ending July 17, 2026, sitting 6% below the five-year average according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Meanwhile, crude inventories at Cushing, Oklahoma, hovered below 20 million barrels from mid-June through July 10. In power markets, the New York Independent System Operator imported 52 gigawatthours of electricity from Canada on July 3—the highest volume since January 2025—utilizing the newly operational Champlain Hudson Power Express transmission line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Energia Costa Azul LNG facility?
Phase 1 of the Energia Costa Azul terminal adds 0.4 billion cubic feet per day of nominal export capacity from a single train, according to the project developer.
Why did U.S. petroleum exports reach record levels in April 2026?
Disruptions to international crude oil and petroleum product flows through the Strait of Hormuz drove up global demand for alternative supplies, pushing U.S. exports to 13.6 million barrels per day, according to federal reporting.
How much electricity did New York import from Canada in July 2026?
The New York Independent System Operator imported 52 gigawatthours of electricity from Canada on July 3, 2026, utilizing infrastructure including the Champlain Hudson Power Express line, according to NYISO data.
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