Just a few years back, liquefied natural gas (LNG) was considered a niche product by the energy industry. But that scenario already seems ancient history. Recent changes in the energy markets have all helped to raise LNG’s profile.

Of particular significance have been deregulation in Europe and the US, the energy crisis in California, the relatively high cost of new sources of natural gas pipeline supplies to the US and the US’ growing importance as an importer.

There are other factors at work