Detailed Narrative
Acadia FSRU Deployment and Optimization
The Accelerate Acadia, the company's newest floating regas terminal, was delivered in April on budget and ahead of schedule. Originally planned for Iraq, it was redeployed to Jordan in May via a nine-month charter with NEPCO, commencing operations in July. This interim deployment is expected to contribute approximately $20 million in EBITDA in 2026, showcasing the company's ability to optimize assets and respond to immediate market needs.
FSRU Express Redeployment to Colombia
In June, Excelerate signed a long-term charter for the FSRU Express with Frontera Energy Corporation, for a new LNG import terminal in Colombia. The agreement has an initial term of seven years and is expected to increase the Express's annual EBITDA contribution by about 35% compared to its current contract. Following its current charter and dry dock, the Express is anticipated to begin service in Colombia in early 2027, adding significant long-term contracted EBITDA to the backlog.
Iraq LNG Import Terminal Progress
The integrated Iraq LNG import terminal project, which includes a five-year regasification services agreement and LNG supply, continues to advance despite the Middle East conflict. Engineering and procurement are nearing completion, and site activities are progressing. Operations are now expected to commence in early Q2 2027, a delay from the original summer 2026 plan, but the project's total estimated cost and return profile remain consistent. The project is structured with a take-or-pay contract, aligning with the company's portfolio strategy.
FSRU Conversion Project and Vessel Acquisition
To capitalize on future regasification opportunities, Excelerate is converting an LNG carrier into an FSRU. In July, the company acquired the Methane Patricia Camilla for approximately $79 million to serve as the dedicated vessel for this project. This vessel was chosen over the Shenandoah due to its 170,000 cubic meter storage capacity, TFDE power generation, and installed reliquefaction, which are expected to enhance performance and earnings potential. The converted FSRU is slated for commercial deployment in early 2028.
Jamaica Platform and Caribbean Expansion
The integrated LNG and Power Platform in Jamaica, acquired over a year ago, continues to be a valuable asset, providing both current contributions and avenues for future growth. The company is optimizing the platform through additional LNG sales and expanded infrastructure services, leveraging its position to serve other Caribbean islands. This model demonstrates a scalable and repeatable approach for regional expansion, with increased commercial momentum expected to yield further updates later in the year.
Capital Allocation and Shareholder Returns
Excelerate maintains a disciplined capital allocation framework, prioritizing accretive growth investments, returning capital to shareholders through a growing dividend, and opportunistic share repurchases. The board approved a 13% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $0.09 per share, consistent with a low double-digit annual growth target through 2028. The company repurchased 693,000 shares for $24 million during the quarter, demonstrating commitment to shareholder value.