Operatorship Change Announced for Gibraltar LNG Terminal
Shell LNG Gibraltar Ltd (SLGL) has announced a significant change in the operations and maintenance of Gibraltar's Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal. The responsibilities will transition from Molgas Energy to px (Gibraltar) Ltd, a subsidiary of the UK-headquartered px Group. The announcement was made on October 8, 2025, by the Minister for Health, Care and Business, who also holds the portfolio for Public Utilities, Gemma Arias Vasquez. The handover process is expected to conclude by November 2025.
Background of the Gibraltar LNG Terminal
The Gibraltar LNG terminal, a crucial component of the territory's energy infrastructure, was commissioned in 2019. Since its inception, it has been operated by Molgas Energy, previously known as GASNOR. The terminal plays a vital role in supplying fuel to the Gibraltar Electricity Authority's power station, enabling Gibraltar to shift from diesel-fueled power generation to cleaner natural gas. The facility is an import (regasification) terminal with a capacity of 0.1 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) and features five double-walled stainless steel storage tanks, each capable of holding 1,000 cubic meters of LNG, totaling 5,000 m³. The terminal's ownership structure remains unchanged, with Shell holding a 51% stake in SLGL and the Government of Gibraltar owning the remaining 49%.
New Operator and Strategic Shift
The change in operatorship stems from a revised business strategy by Molgas's parent company, ME Group, which is withdrawing from operations and maintenance services. Following a comprehensive market review and due diligence process conducted by SLGL, px (Gibraltar) Ltd was selected as the new operator. The px Group brings nearly four decades of experience in developing, commissioning, operating, and managing large-scale energy projects across the UK and Europe. The group currently manages 25 strategic assets, including 11 high-hazard COMAH and SEVESO sites.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
Minister Gemma Arias Vasquez emphasized the terminal's importance, stating, 'The LNG terminal is a critical part of Gibraltar's energy security and has been operated to the highest safety standards since 2019.' She also expressed gratitude to the Molgas Energy team for their professionalism and support during the transition, and extended a warm welcome to px Group. Geoff Holmes, CEO of px Group, commented, 'We are delighted to be entrusted with the operations of Gibraltar's LNG terminal. We look forward to working closely with Shell LNG Gibraltar Ltd, the Government of Gibraltar, and the wider community to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient running of this vital facility for many years to come.' The Government of Gibraltar remains committed to the safe and reliable operation of the LNG terminal, which underpins the territory's power generation and broader energy strategy.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
While energy security is vital for Gibraltar, and LNG offers that, it's important not to lose sight of the long-term environmental goals. We must balance immediate needs with future sustainability.
Muchacho
A professional handover is always welcome for critical infrastructure like this. Still, the focus on LNG should not overshadow the urgent need to transition away from all fossil fuels for a healthier planet.
Coccinella
Finally, a robust operator for our energy future!
Bermudez
A positive step towards modern and reliable infrastructure.
Mariposa
More gas, more emissions. When will we get real renewables?