25/06/2026 15:31 - Economia
In a decisive session during the early hours of June 25, 2026, the Legislature of Neuquén passed the bill ratifying the agreement between the province and YPF (Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales), Argentina's state-owned energy giant. This move greenlights the development of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) infrastructure, a project poised to transform Argentina into a significant player in the global energy market.
The vote concluded with 27 votes in favor out of 35, granting Governor Rolando Figueroa a significant political victory after months of intense negotiation. This legislative approval is the critical step needed for the Final Investment Decision (FID), expected within the next 24 months.
The gas will come from five unconventional exploitation concessions in Vaca Muerta, the massive geological formation located in Neuquén:
The liquefaction plant will be located on the Atlantic coast in Río Negro province.
LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) is natural gas cooled to -160°C, reducing its volume by 600 times. This allows it to be transported on special ships (methane carriers) to distant markets without pipelines. Argentina holds one of the world's largest unconventional gas reserves in Vaca Muerta. This project allows access to the lucrative Asian market, where prices are higher.
Legislator Francisco Lépore emphasized that this project breaks the historical transport limitations of Neuquén's gas.
Political blocs supporting the project:
Plus legislators Brenda Buchiniz and Cecilia Papa.
Political blocs opposing:
Led by YPF, ENI, and XRG, the project involves over USD 20 billion in investment and 5,000 jobs. The design for the separation plant has been awarded to a joint venture between SACDE and Italy's Tecnimont.
Energy Minister Gustavo Medele stated this sets a precedent for future negotiations with other operators.
International disputes will be resolved in the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Paris. However, issues regarding tax collection, royalties, and environmental responsibilities will be handled in provincial courts.
State unions (ATE, ATEN, ADUNC, SEJUN) mobilized on June 24, 2026, protesting with a 24-hour strike against the project.
Sources: Econojournal | Río Negro
Alfredo S. Quiroga
