This article examines the strategic role of the Association of International Energy Negotiators (AIEN) in shaping the legal architecture of the energy transition. It argues that AIEN’s model contracts operate as hybrid governance tools—soft law instruments that harmonize practices across jurisdictions, reduce transaction costs, and embed sustainability objectives into cross-border energy projects.

The AIEN LNG SPA (2025) is intended to be used for long-term sales of LNG on an FOB basis, from either an existing or yet to be constructed LNG export terminal. The agreement provides the flexibility to specify the source of supply and conditions precedent to suit the needs of the particular transaction. Consistent with other AIEN model forms, the LNG SPA is intended to reflect an overall balance between Buyer and Seller interests, and to be sufficiently flexible to be used for trades in any geographical region.