New Maritime Award Supports LNG Project Buildout, Job Creation and Louisiana Shipbuilding Industry
BELLE CHASSE, La. — Global energy company Woodside Energy has awarded a major maritime services contract valued at more than $300 million to Green Tug Towing for the design and construction of four new tugboats to support the Louisiana LNG project, pushing total commitments to Louisiana-based suppliers beyond $1 billion.
The vessels will be constructed by C&C Marine and Repair at its Belle Chasse shipyard in Plaquemines Parish and are scheduled for delivery in 2028. The contract marks another significant milestone in the foundational development of Woodside’s $17.5 billion Louisiana LNG facility in Calcasieu Parish.
Construction on the tugboats is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026.
Louisiana Supply Chain Sees Major Economic Impact
The Green Tug Towing contract is expected to generate approximately:
- 70 direct local jobs
- 30 indirect jobs
- 60 temporary construction positions
The project also reinforces Louisiana’s growing strength in maritime manufacturing, heavy industry and energy infrastructure.
The four tugboats will provide towing services for LNG tankers calling on the Louisiana LNG terminal under a 20-year agreement. In addition to overseeing vessel construction, Green Tug Towing will operate a support facility in Lake Charles.
Green Tug Towing is a Louisiana-based joint venture between Harbor Docking & Towing and Saltchuk Marine Terminal Services.
Woodside LNG Project Expands Louisiana’s Global Energy Position
Woodside’s Louisiana LNG development was announced less than a year ago and remains the largest foreign direct investment in Louisiana history. Once complete, the facility is expected to produce up to 16.5 million metric tons of LNG annually while supporting thousands of jobs across the state.
The latest supplier commitments highlight how large-scale industrial projects create ripple effects far beyond a single construction site—supporting manufacturers, shipyards, logistics firms, engineering companies and skilled trades throughout Louisiana.
Louisiana Continues to Win Major Industrial Projects
State leaders say the project demonstrates Louisiana’s ability to deliver workforce talent, infrastructure readiness and industrial expertise needed for globally competitive investments.
From shipbuilding in Belle Chasse to energy exports in southwest Louisiana, the Woodside project showcases the state’s deep capabilities in both manufacturing and energy.
About Woodside Energy
Woodside Energy is an international energy company with operations across Australia, North America and Africa. The company has played a major role in global LNG development and continues to expand its diversified energy portfolio.
About Louisiana Economic Development
Louisiana Economic Development is the state agency responsible for driving business investment, job creation and economic opportunity throughout Louisiana.
