Lithuania and the United States Strengthen Partnership in LNG and SMR

Washington D.C., April 3, 2025 – Lithuania and the United States are moving to enhance their energy partnership, focusing on liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports and small modular reactor (SMR) technology. Minister of Energy Žygimantas Vaičiūnas met with U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright in Washington to discuss opportunities for collaboration in these critical areas.

Expanding LNG Cooperation

During their meeting, both officials highlighted the potential for increasing LNG imports from the United States, specifically through Lithuania’s Klaipėda LNG terminal. Minister Vaičiūnas underscored the goal of maximizing imports to satisfy both Lithuania’s energy needs and those of the broader Baltic region.

“The Klaipėda LNG terminal could play a significant role in fulfilling Ukraine’s gas supply requirements, utilizing the terminal’s capabilities and the existing interconnection with Poland,” said Vaičiūnas.

Lithuania was among the first European nations to import LNG from the U.S., beginning in 2017. In 2024 alone, Lithuania imported 24 terawatt-hours (TWh) of gas, equivalent to 24 LNG cargoes, primarily from the U.S. and Norway.

Focus on Energy Infrastructure Security

Another key topic of discussion was the security of critical energy infrastructure in the region. The Baltic States and Poland aim to establish a framework for improving the resilience of the European Union's energy systems. This initiative is expected to serve as a model for protecting energy infrastructure across other regions in partnership with NATO.

Interest in Small Modular Reactors

In addition to LNG discussions, Secretary Wright and Minister Vaičiūnas explored the potential deployment of small modular reactors (SMR) in Lithuania. Minister Vaičiūnas also visited the Nuclear Energy Institute during his trip, meeting with developers specializing in SMR technology to further assess its viability for the Lithuanian energy landscape.

The partnership highlights Lithuania's commitment to diversifying its energy sources and enhancing energy security through international cooperation. As energy needs and global dynamics evolve, the relationship between Lithuania and the United States is poised to play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable and secure energy future for the region.

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