AI-Driven Energy Demand May Trigger LNG Shortage by 2030

The rising electricity demand fueled by artificial intelligence and data centers, combined with surging fuel requirements in Asia and Europe's gas dependence, could transform an anticipated global liquefied natural gas (LNG) surplus into a deficit by 2030, according to QatarEnergy CEO Saad al-Kaabi.

Speaking at the LNG2026 conference in Doha, al-Kaabi expressed concerns about new LNG supplies, such as those from the U.S. Gulf Coast's Golden Pass and Qatar's North Field Expansion projects, potentially creating a supply glut from 2026 to 2029 that might lower prices.

However, al-Kaabi indicated that increased demand projections, largely propelled by ongoing AI and data center power needs, suggest a looming shortfall rather than oversupply as Europe becomes a significant LNG buyer, especially after suspending Russian gas imports due to geopolitical tensions.