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Japan’s largest power producer, JERA, is in advanced negotiations to purchase U.S. shale gas assets valued at about $1.7 billion, according to sources familiar with the matter. The assets are owned by GEP Haynesville II, a joint venture backed by Blackstone’s GeoSouthern Energy and Williams Companies.
If finalized, this would be JERA’s first direct move into shale gas production, giving the global LNG giant more control over its supply chain amid rising power demand from AI-driven data centers. The company reportedly outbid several U.S. energy players, though a deal is not guaranteed as GEP could turn to other bidders or abandon the sale.
The acquisition highlights Japan’s growing reliance on U.S. energy following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and aligns with Tokyo’s $7 billion annual energy purchase commitments under a recent trade deal with Washington. The Haynesville basin, located in Texas and Louisiana, is a key target for investors given its proximity to LNG export facilities.
Source: Reuters
