Polar LNG launches Alaska project, names Riddle as CEO

Newly formed Polar LNG aims to develop nearshore LNG project on Alaska’s North Slope. (Image: Polar LNG)

A new Arctic-focused developer, Polar LNG, has launched with plans to advance a nearshore liquefied natural gas project at Prudhoe Bay on Alaska’s North Slope, alongside the appointment of Joel Riddle as president and chief executive officer.

The company said its project is designed to accelerate commercialization of Alaska’s large, undeveloped natural gas resources through a scalable LNG model tailored for Arctic conditions. The approach builds on operational frameworks used in LNG projects in cold-weather regions over the past two decades.

Riddle said the development is positioned to bring North Slope gas to market while supporting U.S. energy security and expanding supply to allied nations. “Polar LNG is uniquely positioned to bring this resource online—delivering reliable energy for Alaska and a strategic supply for the United States,” he said.

The Prudhoe Bay location offers a logistical advantage for exports to Asia, with shipping distances to Japan estimated at about 3,600 miles—significantly shorter than routes from the U.S. Gulf Coast. The company said this positioning could strengthen Alaska’s role as a Pacific-facing LNG supplier.

Polar LNG also framed the project within a broader Arctic strategy, noting that infrastructure development could enhance U.S. maritime presence and logistics capabilities in the region.

Infrastructure and integration

The project includes upgrades to West Dock at Prudhoe Bay and the deployment of icebreaking vessels to enable year-round navigation. These investments are intended to support LNG operations as well as broader industrial activity on the North Slope.

Polar LNG said the development is complementary to the proposed Alaska LNG pipeline project, with both initiatives aimed at monetizing North Slope gas resources and expanding U.S. export capacity.

In addition to export capabilities, the company highlighted expected local benefits, including state revenue generation, property tax contributions and expanded support for remote communities and emergency response infrastructure.

Leadership background

Riddle joins Polar LNG after serving as managing director and CEO of Tamboran Resources from 2013 to 2025, where he led development efforts in Australia’s Beetaloo Basin. Earlier, he held commercial and planning roles at Cobalt International Energy.

Polar LNG said it will focus on integrating Arctic-specific infrastructure, environmental monitoring and local stakeholder engagement as it advances the project.