Exxon Estimates Second Berbice Pipeline Could Exceed US$2B Cost
ExxonMobil Guyana’s president, Alistair Routledge, told reporters the company is preparing for major domestic gas expansion. He made the comments during a media briefing tied to the 2026 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo.
Cost expectations and comparisons
Exxon estimates the second Berbice pipeline could top US$2 billion. The company said the new line would likely cost two times the roughly US$1 billion spent on the 225-kilometer Liza-to-Wales pipeline.
The original pipeline was completed by Exxon in 2024. It supports the Wales Gas-to-Energy project.
Market demand and anchor projects
Routledge said international firms have been contacting both government and Exxon. They want to use Guyana’s gas for data centers, alumina conversion, and power generation.
He stressed that large anchor projects will be required. Those projects must create stable demand to justify major infrastructure.
Commercial planning and pricing
Exxon said it will confirm a market before committing to build. The company needs buyers who can pay a feasible gas price.
Officials are lining out a commercial value chain with potential investors. That work will inform final investment decisions.
Pipeline specifics and regional talks
Details on pipeline size remain under discussion. Routledge said the Berbice line would be larger to carry greater volumes.
Exxon has held discussions with Suriname about sharing a pipeline. Shared infrastructure could offer economies of scale, the company noted.
Supply sources and production figures
Gas from the Hammerhead and Longtail projects could supply the line. Hammerhead can produce about 80 to 90 million cubic feet of gas daily.
Longtail is under government review and is reported to have capacity near 1,200 million standard cubic feet per day. That output would greatly expand supply options.
Local engagement and industrial opportunities
Exxon said it will consult Berbice communities and businesses as the plan advances. The company expects new opportunities in small manufacturing and glass production.
Officials argued these industries would use less imported liquid fuel. They said domestic gas would improve efficiency and reduce import needs.
Filmogaz.com covered the briefing and provided these details from ExxonMobil Guyana’s statements.
