Brazil’s Largest Offshore Oil Platform Begins Operations in Pre-Salt Region

The Almirante Tamandaré, Brazil’s largest offshore oil production unit, began operations on Saturday, October 15, in the Búzios Field, located in the Santos Basin, about 180 kilometers off the coast of Rio de Janeiro.

The platform has a daily processing capacity of 225,000 barrels of oil and 12 million cubic meters of natural gas. It represents a significant milestone for the country’s energy sector.

The platform will operate 15 wells: seven oil producers, six water and gas injectors, one convertible well (both producer and injector), and one gas injector. These wells are connected to the platform through an extensive subsea infrastructure.

Petrobras operates the field with an 88.9% stake, alongside partners CNOOC (7.34%) and CNPC (3.67%). The company received final authorization from Brazil’s National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Biofuels (ANP) just a day before operations commenced.

The Búzios Field is part of Brazil’s pre-salt region, known for its vast petroleum reserves located beneath thick layers of salt and rock at depths between 5,000 and 7,000 meters.

Petrobras has projected that Búzios could soon become its largest production field, potentially surpassing 1.5 million barrels per day. The Almirante Tamandaré alone is expected to contribute significantly to this goal.

Petrobras’ New Platform

It is planned to help the field reach one million barrels per day by late 2025. Petrobras President Magda Chambriard emphasized the platform’s importance as part of Búzios’ sixth production system.

Chartered from SBM Offshore, the unit boasts above-average capabilities compared to typical industry platforms. These generally process around 150,000 barrels of oil and compress 10 million cubic meters of gas daily.

The platform also incorporates decarbonization technologies designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It features energy-efficient systems that repurpose heat to minimize additional energy demands.

Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira highlighted these sustainable features. He emphasized the importance of advancing Brazil’s oil and gas sector responsibly.

Coinciding with the platform’s launch, Petrobras announced new oil reserves discovered in a nearby well at a depth of approximately 5,600 meters. This discovery underscores the region’s potential as a cornerstone for Brazil’s energy future.

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