Simultaneously, Petrobras signed contracts for the construction of 41 support vessels under the “Programa Mar Aberto,” allocating R$ 2.8 billion to build five gas carriers, 18 barges, and 18 pushers. Naval construction is spread among Estaleiro Rio Grande (RS), Bertolini Constructora Naval (Amazonas), and Indústria Naval Catarinense (Santa Catarina). The expanded fleet will reduce reliance on charters, improve logistics flexibility, and cut greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 30%, with the gas carriers being 20% more efficient and capable of operating in electrified ports.
The projects align with Petrobras’ 2026-2030 Business Plan, which commits over US$ 20 billion to low-carbon and biofuel ventures, targeting net-zero operational emissions by 2050. The investments are projected to generate over 9,000 direct and indirect jobs and support Brazil’s energy sovereignty goals emphasized by President Lula during the contract signings. These initiatives mark a comprehensive approach to sustainable fuel production and supply chain modernization in Brazil’s oil and gas sector.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
