Baker Hughes (NASDAQ:BKR) is not witnessing a slowdown in its significant energy projects, CEO Lorenzo Simonelli confirmed. The robust demand for natural gas and power, driven by the global expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure, is the key factor behind this trend.
Simonelli, speaking with CNBC at the Gastech conference in Bangkok on Sunday, stated, "We haven’t seen a slowdown,” adding that the bankability of these projects is based on existing offtake agreements and the outlook for energy demand. He emphasized that the increasing energy needs from population growth, industry, and data centers continue to support investment.
“Energy demand is intrinsically linked with energy supply and energy sources,” Simonelli said. He added that high prices can stimulate the investment needed to bring additional supply to the market.
"It’s ‘full steam ahead,” he said.
Baker Hughes expects prices to remain range-bound, with limited risk of a prolonged glut despite the upcoming surge in LNG supply. The company estimates global LNG capacity will need to reach 900 million tons per annum by 2035 to meet future demand.
Simonelli also said Baker Hughes expects the rapid expansion of data centers to continue despite rising concerns over their electricity and water consumption. He added that the company is expanding its capacity to keep pace with growing demand.
Baker Hughes Strengthens LNG Portfolio
On Sunday, Baker Hughes and Venture Global LNG announced their plans to expand their collaboration to advance critical U.S. gas infrastructure. Baker Hughes will supply 13 gas compression systems for the Cloud Connector Pipeline in Louisiana and a modular liquefaction solution with cold boxes for the expansion of Venture Global’s Plaquemines LNG facility. The projects will strengthen LNG infrastructure by enabling efficient feed-gas transportation and increasing liquefaction capacity, supporting U.S. LNG supply and global energy security.
Earlier in the month, Baker Hughes had also revealed its updated fiscal 2026 outlook and longer-term targets following the acquisition of Chart Industries. Chart is expected to contribute $1.85 billion–$2.25 billion in 2026 revenue and $300 million–$400 million in EBITDA, excluding pre-acquisition results. Second-half performance is expected to be weighted toward Q4, while the company forecasts a book-to-bill ratio above 1x, with momentum continuing into 2027.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors
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