With Hybrid Technology and a Focus on Sustainability, Petrobras Closes Billion-Dollar Contracts with Brazilian Companies, Boosts Shipbuilding in the Country, and Prepares Bidding for More 6 Multifunctional Vessels.
Petrobras, one of the largest energy companies in the world, is focused on renewing and modernizing its fleet. Recently, the Brazilian state-owned company announced contracts for the construction and chartering of 12 new platform supply vessels (PSVs), with billion-dollar investments. The goal? Bring more efficiency, advanced technology, and sustainability to its offshore operations.
Context of Modernizing Petrobras’ PSV Fleet
The announcement is part of Petrobras’ business plan for the period 2025-2029, which aims to transform the company’s operations. This modernization is essential for Petrobras to maintain its global competitiveness, as well as to meet environmental and governance requirements.
During a meeting of the Council for Sustainable Economic and Social Development, President Magda Chambriard highlighted the importance of the project. According to her, the new vessels represent Petrobras’ commitment to sustainable and innovative practices.
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Details of the Contracts and Involved Companies

The contracts, valued at R$ 16.5 billion, provide for the chartering of 12 PSVs for up to 12 years of operation. The chosen Brazilian companies, Bram Offshore and Starnav Serviços Marítimos, will be responsible for building the vessels in their shipyards located in Navegantes and Itajaí, on the Santa Catarina coast.
This investment also boosts the shipbuilding sector in Brazil, with R$ 5.2 billion allocated to this segment. An injection of resources that drives the economy and strengthens the national market.
Hybrid Technology and Commitment to Sustainability
The new vessels will feature a hybrid propulsion system, which combines electric motors, batteries, and diesel or biodiesel generators. This will allow for more efficient operation with lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, aligning with Petrobras’ commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
In addition to being more sustainable, modern PSVs are equipped with the most advanced technologies, ensuring operational efficiency and greater safety in offshore operations.
Next Steps: More Six Multifunctional PSVs
Petrobras also intends to finalize a contract for another six hybrid multifunctional PSVs capable of oil spill recovery. The winner of this bidding was Compagnie Maritime Monegasque (CMM), which will feature the innovative design from Kongsberg Maritime, Norway.
These vessels have a unique feature: the UT7420 design allows for future upgrade to ethanol fuel, which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 70%. This is proof that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand in the offshore sector.
Job Creation and Economic Impact in Brazil
One of the main gains from this project is job creation. With construction being carried out at the shipyards in Itajaí and Navegantes, it is estimated that more than 11,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created.
This modernization boosts the Brazilian shipbuilding industry and strengthens the regional economy, bringing development to Santa Catarina and the country as a whole.
The modernization of Petrobras’ PSV fleet is a strategic step towards the future. In addition to incorporating cutting-edge technologies, these contracts reinforce the commitment to sustainability and the economic development of Brazil.
With billion-dollar investments and the creation of thousands of jobs, Petrobras reaffirms its position as a leader in the energy sector, always seeking innovation and efficiency.

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