Category: Curation

  • Transpetro expands its logistics role with the integration of PB-LOG

    Transpetro expands its logistics role with the integration of PB-LOG

    Transpetro completed a new step in its strategy to expand operations in oil and refined-product logistics by integrating Petrobras Logística de Exploração & Produção S.A. (PB-LOG) into its structure. With the change, Transpetro now takes on offshore support activities and emergency-response management in areas operated by Petrobras-led consortia.

    PB-LOG, previously a wholly owned subsidiary of Petrobras, now becomes part of Transpetro’s management structure. The integration was approved across all governance levels and involves a capital increase within Transpetro, without new share issuance.

    According to Transpetro’s president, Sérgio Bacci, the move aligns with the company’s central objective of broadening its logistical footprint and strengthening its position as a profitable state-owned operator with integrated multimodal capabilities. PB-LOG’s incorporation complements ongoing investments in pipelines, terminals, fleet expansion and inland navigation, reinforcing a strategy focused on capturing new clients and opening new market segments.

    With this integration, Transpetro expands its presence in E&P logistics, leveraging synergies with PB-LOG to deliver more comprehensive and integrated services. The current growth cycle is supported by new investments in terminal capacity, pipeline modernization, fleet renewal and entry into new transport modes.

    Since last year, Transpetro has launched tenders for 16 vessels — four handy tankers, eight gas carriers and four MR1 tankers — aimed at increasing coastal transport capacity. The company also advanced with procurement for 18 barges and 18 pushers to expand inland navigation, and confirmed the contracting of nine DP shuttle tankers to enhance offloading capacity for Petrobras-operated platforms.

    PB-LOG, created in 2012, provides emergency-response services for offshore operations and integrated logistics solutions across land, maritime and air transport. Its operations are concentrated in Southeast Brazil, supporting 21 consortia involving 12 companies. In 2024, the company reported net income of R$533 million.

  • WSB Advisors in spotlight

    WSB Advisors in spotlight

    Our team of shipbrokers gave interviews for a report by Liga Naval – UFRJ about the profession in Brazil. It’s great to see the Shipbroker profession being valued and its impact on the maritime industry.

    Liga Naval is a space that aims to promote professional growth for students of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, expanding their connection with the job market.

  • Brazil’s Energy Future: Battery Auction?

    Brazil’s Energy Future: Battery Auction?

    The Brazilian Ministry of Mines and Energy has launched a public consultation for a potential battery auction. This would be an important step forward in advancing storage systems in the country’s energy grid.

    The government intends for this auction to begin in June 2025, structured as a capacity reserve auction. Contributions are open until October 28 of this year, with the implementation of the systems planned for 2029.

    The expectation is that this auction will attract foreign investors to Brazil, particularly from China, including companies like Huawei. The newspaper O Globo reported that the auction will enhance the integration of intermittent energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower.

    According to the Ministry of Mines and Energy, “the main innovation of this auction is the procurement of battery storage systems, which have gained prominence in discussions about the Brazilian energy matrix. These systems provide instant response and operational flexibility, aligning with the country’s energy transition goals while ensuring the competitiveness of the electric system. The declining costs of batteries facilitate their global adoption for various applications, including system stability. Climate change is making the operation of the electric system more challenging, underscoring the importance of energy storage. This contributes to the security of the national electricity supply.”

    According to “Poder 360,” Brazil does not anticipate a large-scale battery auction at this initial stage, and the real objective of the auction is to facilitate the entry of new technologies into the country.

    All these topics were addressed in our last seminar. For more details, click here: