Petrobras Wins Key Environmental Approval for Amapá Offshore Drilling

September 24, 2025

Petrobras has received regulatory approval from Brazil’s environmental agency Ibama for its Pre-Operational Assessment (APO) in block FZA-M-59, a key step toward securing a license to drill an exploratory well in the deepwater basin off the coast of Amapá.

The APO, conducted in August, tested Petrobras’ emergency response capabilities and marked the final stage of the licensing process. Ibama noted the “robustness of the structure” and the “unprecedented” logistical challenges managed during the simulation, declaring the assessment approved.

However, the agency requested adjustments to BR’ wildlife protection plan to ensure alignment with regional environmental requirements.

Petrobras has committed to resubmitting the revised plan by September 26. Once the improvements are verified, Ibama recommends granting the operating license.

Approval of the exploratory well is crucial for Petrobras’ push into Brazil’s Equatorial Margin, an underexplored offshore frontier believed to hold significant hydrocarbon potential.

The company has faced scrutiny and delays in previous attempts to drill in the area due to environmental concerns, particularly given the region’s biodiversity and proximity to sensitive ecosystems.

Petrobras has repeatedly highlighted the strategic importance of the Equatorial Margin for Brazil’s energy security, viewing the basin as a potential source of large reserves that could complement production from the prolific pre-salt fields.

The company also frames the project as part of its strategy to ensure sufficient resources during the global energy transition.

If licensed, Petrobras’ upcoming drilling campaign in block FZA-M-59 will seek geological data to determine the commercial viability of oil in the area, potentially opening a new exploration frontier for the country.

Oilprice.com