BP begins new drilling

By Rafael Bortoloti

​Last week, BP Energy began drilling well 1-BP-12D-RJS, in the Pau Brasil block, Santos Basin pre-salt. The rig daily rate is of $410,000 under an 80-day contract, amounting to a total of $33 million and the well is in a water depth of 2. 283 meters. The vessel and the crew of Valaris´ DS-15 vessel already were on standby, only waiting for the green light from IBAMA to initiate the operations.

Currently contracted with TotalEnergies until September, the DS-15 drillship has an unique opportunity for short-term engagements. In 2024, the vessel was temporarily released for contracts with PETRONAS and now BP. Following this assignment, it will return to Total Energies albeit at a reduced daily rate of $254,000.

The Pau-Brasil well, acquired by BP in the 5th Sharing Round in 2018, is a joint venture with CNOOC (30%) and Ecopetrol (20%). This collaboration underscores BP’s strategic investment in the region and their commitment to unlocking the potential of Brazil’s energy resources.