Petrobras has commenced commercial operations at the second module of the Natural Gas Processing Unit (UPGN) at the Boaventura Energy Complex in Itaboraí, in the state of Rio de Janeiro. With this addition, the facility’s total processing capacity has now reached 21 million cubic meters of natural gas per day, effectively doubling the plant’s previous output.

The launch of the second UPGN module builds on the momentum started with the inauguration of the first module in 2024. This development marks a significant advancement in Petrobras’ strategy to expand the availability of domestically produced natural gas, reduce dependency on imports, and support Brazil’s transition to a more competitive and self-reliant energy market.

The Boaventura UPGN plays a vital role in Petrobras’ broader Rota 3 Integrated Project. This initiative is designed to transport and process natural gas from Brazil’s pre-salt offshore fields, including the prolific Tupi, Búzios and Sapinhoá fields. The processed gas is separated into three essential components: natural gas (NG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and C5+ hydrocarbons. These products serve as key inputs for the petrochemical industry, fuel production, and electricity generation.

According to Maurício Tolmasquim, Petrobras’ director of energy transition and sustainability, the expansion of the Boaventura complex strengthens the company’s ability to meet growing market demand. “Petrobras is committed to offering even greater supply reliability to industrial and distribution customers seeking sustainable and competitive energy solutions,” he said. “The commercial operation of the second UPGN module also enhances our competitiveness in Brazil’s evolving gas market.”

Since November 2024, the Boaventura UPGN has been contributing to Brazil’s energy security by increasing domestic processing capacity and reducing the need for imported gas. This aligns with Petrobras’ long-term vision of energy self-sufficiency and reinforces its strategic importance in the national energy mix.

Beyond the current processing infrastructure, Petrobras is investing in further developments at the Boaventura Energy Complex. These include two gas-fired thermoelectric power plants and additional refining units dedicated to producing fuels and lubricants. These projects are aimed at bolstering Petrobras’ role in the power generation sector and preparing for participation in Brazil’s 2025 electricity sector auction. The contracting process for these initiatives is currently underway.

William França, Petrobras’ director of industrial processes and products, highlighted the broader implications of the project. “The entry into commercial operation of both UPGN modules is another demonstration of our commitment to Brazil,” he said. “It supports our strategic positioning in the gas market and ensures the financial and operational sustainability of a complex, integrated energy initiative.”

In parallel with its processing advancements, Petrobras also recently announced the discovery of hydrocarbons in the pre-salt layer of the Campos Basin. The discovery was made in the Brava North block through exploratory well 1-BRSA-1394-RJS, located approximately 105 kilometers offshore from the coast of Rio de Janeiro at a water depth of 575 meters. The find underscores the continued potential of Brazil’s offshore reserves and signals opportunities for future resource development.