José Firmo Highlights Positive Impact of Oil Extraction in Mature Fields on Regional Economy and Advocates for Natural Gas as a Pillar of Energy Transition
The strength of oil production in onshore areas is changing the reality of cities in the northeastern interior. According to José Firmo, CEO of PetroReconcavo, the activity drives employment, income, and infrastructure investments, highlighting the growth of the natural gas sector, which already represents 43% of the company’s production.
The Strength of Onshore Oil in the Northeast
The resumption of oil exploration in mature fields is changing the economic dynamics of cities in the northeastern interior. According to an interview given by José Firmo, CEO of PetroReconcavo, to the portal Eixos, the onshore operation model has the potential to transform the reality of regions historically distant from major industrial hubs. The company, which operates strongly in Bahia and Rio Grande do Norte, directly impacts more than 15,000 people, with 93% of workers coming from the region itself.
This scenario reaffirms the strategic role of onshore oil production in decentralizing economic development. Firmo points out that it is not just about generating direct jobs, but also about a multiplier effect on the local economy; from commerce to service provision, oil becomes a driver of regional dynamism. The appreciation of mature fields, therefore, presents a concrete opportunity to strengthen the interior of Brazil based on existing resources.
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Natural Gas Takes Center Stage in Energy Transition
An important fact raised by Firmo in the interview is that 43% of PetroReconcavo’s production is already composed of natural gas, a raw material he considers essential for a more balanced and clean energy matrix. As an example, the executive mentioned a new processing project in Miranga (BA), which will involve an investment of US$ 60 million over the next three years. The CEO advocates for gas as the “necessary bridge” toward energy transition, especially in a country where the cost of renewables and infrastructure remains challenging in remote regions.
This vision is also supported by industry experts, as pointed out by the Brazilian Association of Independent Oil and Gas Producers (ABPIP), which reinforces the need to use available fossil resources responsibly while also investing in sustainable alternatives. Gas, being less polluting than crude oil, allows for a gradual transition without causing disruptions to the country’s energy security.
Oil as a Vector for Social and Environmental Development
Another point emphasized by Firmo is the commitment to robust environmental licensing and ongoing dialogue with regulatory bodies. He states that PetroReconcavo adopts sustainable operational practices, focusing on reducing environmental impact and strengthening community relations. The CEO’s experience in cities like Catu (BA) and Mossoró (RN) reinforces the conviction that oil-driven development can and should come with social responsibility and transparency.
The content of the interview is part of the project “Energy that Transforms,” carried out by the portal Eixos in partnership with ABPIP. The initiative aims to highlight how the actions of independent companies are contributing to the progress of cities outside major centers, where oil and natural gas become instruments of long-term economic and social transformation.

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