Japan’s Inpex looking to offload stake in Brazil hydrocarbons block

Japan’s Inpex intends to divest its 15% stake in Brazilian hydrocarbon exploration block ES-M-525 (BM-ES-23 concession) in the Espírito Santo basin, a source familiar with the matter told BNamericas. 

The plan is to sell 11.47% to BW Energy, which is the operator of the asset, and the remaining 3.53% to its partner Aquamarine. 

BW acquired Petrobras’ 65% stake in ES-M-525 in August, together with the Golfinho and Camarupim fields. 

The block holds the Brigadeiro gas and condensate discovery.  

According to watchdog ANP, BM-ES-23 is Inpex’s only exploration asset in Brazil. 

BNamericas contacted Inpex for comment but the company did not respond. 

MAROMBA

BW Energy is also the operator of the Maromba field in the Campos basin. 

In its latest financial results presentation, the company said it was progressing on a new development concept expected to need reduced investment compared to the current plan. 

The final investment decision remains subject to concluding project financing. 

Maromba’s expected peak annual oil production remains at 30,000-40,000b/d through the Polvo FPSO.