Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass liquefied natural gas export facility in Cameron Parish, Louisiana, recently expanded in scope from four liquefaction trains, or production units, to six.

The initial four liquefaction trains under construction represent an investment of approximately $12 billion. Cheniere Energy’s recent announcement of two additional trains will bring the total project investment to more than $18 billion, creating a total of 400 jobs. The entire project slated for completion by 2019.

Governor Bobby Jindal said, “Cheniere Energy made history in Louisiana when it announced the development of one of the nation’s first liquefaction export facilities at the Sabine Pass terminal in Cameron Parish. With the recent expansion of the project’s scope, this LNG facility represents one of the largest manufacturing investments in Louisiana history. This expansion and investment is a testament to the faith and confidence that major companies like Cheniere Energy have in our state. Our world-class energy infrastructure, highly skilled workforce and strong business climate are encouraging continued investments in our state and will position Louisiana as a leader in meeting global energy needs.”

Four years ago, Cheniere Energy announced the development of a natural gas liquefaction facility and export terminal to be built adjacent to Cheniere’s existing LNG import receiving terminal in Cameron Parish. Construction began in August 2012 and the first LNG is expected to be produced by late 2015. Nearly all the LNG production capacity for the first five liquefaction trains has been sold under 20-year contracts with major global clients.

“The Sabine Pass liquefaction facility is the first LNG export facility to be developed in over 40 years in North America,” Cheniere Energy Chairman/CEO Charif Souki said. “Construction is well underway on our first four liquefaction trains and we expect to have first LNG production by late 2015. Our facility is strategically located along the Gulf of Mexico in Cameron Parish. Louisiana has one of the most liquid natural gas markets, with an abundant supply of natural gas and a vast network of pipeline infrastructure. We are grateful to the State of Louisiana and its elected leaders, including Governor Jindal and his Cabinet, for welcoming us in their state and for their facilitation in the development of our Sabine Pass LNG export facility.”

To secure the expansion, Louisiana offered the company a competitive incentive package. Cheniere will continue to receive the comprehensive solutions of LED FastStart. Cheniere also is expected to utilize the state’s Quality Jobs and Industrial Tax Exemption programs.

“Cheniere has been one of the leading corporations in Southwest Louisiana since its founding,” said President/CEO George Swift of the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance. “This increase in the project in Cameron Parish and Louisiana is phenomenal. In addition to creating huge employment during construction and creating quality, permanent jobs, Cheniere will provide the nation and world with much-needed energy. They have set the standard for corporate support and community involvement. This is the largest project underway in our region.”