Petrobras plans to install 7 FPSOs between 2029 and 2032

Brazilian national oil company Petrobras plans to install seven new FPSOs between 2029 and 2032. 

The forecast was presented by the state-run firm’s engineering director Carlos Travassos to representatives of companies that operate in the area. 

The information was shared by a local source with BNamericas.

The new production units are due to be destined for both revitalization projects, such as Marlim Sul/Leste and Tupi, and new production development undertakings like Búzios 12 and Mero 5, which Petrobras is said to be considering. 

The firm intends to launch the tenders for the contracting of the FPSOs between four and five years before their first oil.

Petrobras’ 2024-28 business plan foresees the beginning of operations of 13 FPSOs in the period: Marechal Duque de Caxias in 2024; Maria Quitéria, Almirante Tamandaré, Alexandre de Gusmão and P-78 in 2025; P-79 and P-80 in 2026; P-82, P-83 and Albacora in 2027; and Sergipe deepwater (SEAP I and II) and Barracuda/Caratinga in 2028. 

The federal oil giant is currently holding tenders for the contracting of the Barracuda/Caratinga and SEAP I and II FPSOs.  

Local sources told BNamericas that companies such as Shapoorji Pallonji Energy Private, Yinson, Misc and Ocyan are looking at submitting bids in the Barracuda/ Caratinga tender. 

SBM and Modec may also participate, but are less likely to present offers. 

Regarding SEAP, Petrobras may change the contracting model from charter to engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) or build-operate-transfer (BOT) in case the current tenders are not successful. 

Meanwhile, the company is expected to launch rebidding for the chartering of the Albacora FPSO after the cancellation of the previous process. 

The FPSOs for Sépia 2 (P-84) and Atapu 2 (P-85) are likely to be contracted with Seatrium, which beat China Offshore Oil Engineering Corporation (COOEC) in a tender.