The liquefaction terminals at Idku represent the only currently operating facilities in Egypt for the export of LNG. Since fall 2016, Egypt’s Petroleum Ministry and Shell, the operator of the facility, have agreed to increase the number of LNG cargo ships (hereafter “cargoes”) leaving Idku, which has been at extremely low levels for the past three years. Setting a target of 22 shipments for 2017, it is hoped that the facility can export enough to balance expenses and revenues. Imagery analysis confirms 4 cargoes leaving the port so far in 2017, illustrating tentative progress towards the goal, as well as beginning to pay down outstanding debts to Shell. The target of 22 shipments in 2017 will likely be revised upwards in 2018 and 2019 as the terminal approaches maximum output by 2020 to coincide with the massive Zohr field coming online and changing the Egyptian gas landscape entirely.
