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Petrobras has started commercial operations at the second module of the Boaventura Energy Complex's Natural Gas Processing Unit (UPGN) in Itaboraí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
With this addition, the UPGN's total processing capacity has now reached 21m³ per day.
The inauguration of the first module took place last year, marking a significant step in the company's efforts to boost domestic natural gas supply.
The Boaventura UPGN is a critical component of Petrobras' Rota 3 Integrated Project, which transports natural gas from prolific fields such as Tupi, Búzios and Sapinhoá.
The processed gas yields three key products: natural gas (NG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and C5+, which serve as essential inputs for the petrochemical industry and fuel production.
Energy Transition and Sustainability director Maurício Tolmasquim said: “Petrobras is committed to offering even greater supply reliability to industrial and distribution customers committed to sustainable and competitive solutions. The commercial operation of UPGN module 2 is also essential to increase Petrobras' competitiveness in the new dynamic and competitive environment of the national gas market.”
Since November 2024, Petrobras has been playing a pivotal role in the domestic market by operating the UPGN at the Boaventura Energy Complex. This has contributed to the reduction of natural gas imports, reinforcing the company's commitment to energy self-sufficiency.
The expansion of the Boaventura Energy Complex includes not only the UPGN and a pipeline for natural gas flow but also additional projects.
Petrobras is developing two gas-fired thermoelectric plants and refining units to produce fuels and lubricants, with the aim of participating in the electricity sector auction scheduled for 2025.
The contracting processes for these works are currently in progress.
Petrobras director of Industrial Processes and Products William França said: “The entry into commercial operation of the two UPGN modules is yet another demonstration of a company that is committed to the country. Petrobras is reaffirming its strategy for the gas market and preserving the financial sustainability of an integrated project with high operational complexity.”
Petrobras also recently reported the discovery of hydrocarbons in the pre-salt layer of the Campos Basin, within the Brava North block, offshore Brazil.
The exploratory well 1-BRSA-1394-RJS, located 105km off the coast of Rio de Janeiro at a water depth of 575m, has shown the presence of hydrocarbons, indicating the potential for future resource development.