Petrobras, Brazil’s oil giant, announced on Monday that it has exceeded its 2024 production targets. The company’s success story unfolds against a backdrop of strategic planning and operational excellence.
Petrobras achieved a total oil and gas production of 2.7 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (boed) in 2024. The company’s commercial production reached 2.4 million boed, while oil production hit 2.2 million barrels per day.
These figures align with the goals set in Petrobras’ 2024-2028 Strategic Plan. The plan allowed for a 4% variation, which the company comfortably met. Petrobras’ pre-salt performance stood out as a key driver of its success.
The company’s own pre-salt production soared to 2.2 million boed. Meanwhile, operated production in this area reached an impressive 3.2 million boed. Pre-salt now accounts for 81% of Petrobras’ total production.
Two new platforms played crucial roles in boosting production. The FPSO Maria Quitéria began operations ahead of schedule in the Jubarte field. The FPSO Marechal Duque de Caxias also started producing in the Mero field.
These additions significantly increased output. The FPSO Sepetiba in the Mero field reached its maximum oil production capacity. This milestone came just eight months after the platform began operations.
Such rapid progress highlights Petrobras’ operational efficiency. November 2024 saw the launch of a new Natural Gas Processing Unit in Itaboraí, Rio de Janeiro.
Strategic Growth Amid Challenges
This facility can process 10.5 million cubic meters of natural gas daily. It marks another step in Petrobras’ infrastructure expansion. Petrobras faced challenges during the year, including scheduled maintenance and mature field decline.
Unscheduled stoppages mandated by regulators and an IBAMA strike also impacted operations. Despite these hurdles, the company still met its targets.
Looking ahead, Petrobras unveiled its 2025-2029 Strategic Plan in November 2024. The plan outlines a total investment of $111 billion over five years. This figure represents an 8.8% increase from the previous plan.
The company maintains its focus on Exploration and Production. This sector will receive $77.3 billion, or 69.3% of the total investment. Petrobras also raised its debt ceiling from $65 billion to $75 billion.
Petrobras projects ordinary dividends between $45-55 billion over the next five years. Additionally, the company may pay extraordinary dividends of $5-10 billion until 2029. These figures signal confidence in future performance.
The company’s success in meeting production targets demonstrates its market strength. Petrobras continues to play a vital role in Brazil’s energy sector and economic development. Its commitment to operational excellence and strategic growth positions it well for the future.