Petrobras says operations have started with the first module of the Natural Gas Processing Unit (NGPU) at the Boaventura Energy Complex in Itaboraí, Rio de Janeiro state.
The module is designed to process 10.5 MMcm/d, with capacity set to double around year-end once the second module becomes operational.
Boaventura’s NGPU will help increase gas supplies to Brazil’s domestic market, reducing the country’s dependence on imports. Production includes supplies through the Rota 3 gas pipeline, part of the Santos Basin’s Integrated Gas Flow System, delivered from deepwater fields including Tupi, Búzios and Sapinhoá.
“The Rota 3 Integrated Project not only increases flow capacity but also makes our activities more flexible…," according to Renata Baruzzi, engineering, technology and innovation director. “Regardless of the connection point, the gas from the production fields in the Santos Basin can flow to the company’s many processing units, including the…new NGPU.”
Last year, Petrobras entered into more than 34 natural gas supply contracts after winning public bids by distributors and competitive free consumer processes involving volumes of more than 70 Bcm through 2034.
