Petrobras and Ibama begin simulation that could define exploration in the Equatorial Margin.

247 - Petrobras and Ibama (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) begin this Sunday (24) a crucial test for the future of oil exploration on the Equatorial Margin, reports CNN BrazilThe Pre-Operational Assessment (POA) is the final stage of the environmental licensing process for the region.

Located off the coast of Amapá, the Equatorial Margin is considered one of the country's main frontiers for new investments in oil exploration. The APO (Air Port Operations Plan) functions as an emergency simulation, designed to prove the efficiency of Petrobras' response plans in case of accidents during drilling.

How will the test be?

The procedure will be coordinated by Ibama, which will create a hypothetical accident scenario based on the plans presented by the state-owned company. Petrobras will not have prior knowledge of the details or the exact duration of the exercise, although it projects that it will last three to four days.

During the simulation, aspects such as the effectiveness of the equipment, the agility of the teams, the response time in assisting affected wildlife, and communication with authorities and other stakeholders will be evaluated.

Mobilized structure

For the operation, the NS-42 drilling rig will be used, the same one that was to be employed in block FZA-M-59. The equipment arrived at the site on the 18th. More than 400 professionals will be involved in the exercise, which will also include large ships, helicopters and the rig itself.

The procedure follows similar standards to that carried out in 2023, off the coast of Rio Grande do Norte, before authorization was granted to drill the Pitu Oeste and Anhangá wells.

With the APO (Preliminary Environmental Authorization), Petrobras and Ibama are moving towards a decision that could open a new chapter in oil exploration in the country.