News

Adds background and context at paragraphs 4&5

HOUSTON, Jan 25 (Reuters) - Liquefied natural gas (LNG) developer Tellurian TELL.A has hired investment banker Lazard Inc LAZ.N amid a search for investors and customers for its Driftwood LNG export terminal, the company said on Thursday.

Tellurian has been trying to develop a 27.6 million metric-tons-per-annum LNG plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and earlier said it sought help with balance sheet management and commercial structures.

"I can confirm we hired Lazard and they are helping us as we seek equity partners," spokesperson Joi Lecznar said on Thursday.

Tellurian ousted its chairman and co-founder Charif Souki late last year after auditors raised doubts about the company's ability to cover future expenses. In November, it said available cash and receivables would not be enough to satisfy debt covenants for 12 months without new cash.

Lazard has extensive experience in advisory services, including in-court and out-of-court balance sheet restructurings, its website said.

(Reporting by Curtis Williams in Houston; Editing by Chris Reese and Tom Hogue)

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.