Skip to main content

French energy giant TotalEnergies invests $1 billion in a new oil project off the coast of Brazil

 FPSO Cidade de Caraguatatuba; Source: MODEC

French-headquartered energy giant TotalEnergies has approved a final investment decision (FID) for an oil development project located in the Santos Basin, 300 km off the coast of Brazil. TotalEnergies announced the FID for the Lapa South-West oil development project on Monday, 16 January 2023. The French player operates this project with a 45 per cent interest, in partnership with Shell (30 per cent) and Repsol Sinopec (25 per cent).


David Mendelson, Senior Vice President, Americas at TotalEnergies Exploration & Production, remarked: “This latest development is an important milestone for TotalEnergies in Brazil that will increase its operated production in the pre-salt Santos Basin, a key growth area for the company. With its efficient engineering approach and synergies with existing facilities, this project illustrates TotalEnergies’ strategy of focusing on low-cost, low-emissions assets.”


The Lapa South-West project will be developed through three wells, connected to an existing FPSO – located 12 km away – currently producing in the northeast part of the Lapa field since 2016. This development represents an investment of approximately $1 billion.


The Lapa field is a pre-salt oil and gas field in the Santos basin, which lies within the core pre-salt cluster area previously known as Carioca before its declaration of commerciality in December 2013. Discovered in 2007, the Lapa field’s full commercial production started in late 2016 through the 100,000 b/d FPSO Cidade de Caraguatatuba MV27. This FPSO has an oil processing capacity of 100,000 barrels a day, a gas processing capacity of 177 million cubic feet a day, an oil storage capacity of 1.6 million barrels and a water injection capacity of 120,000 barrels of water per day.


The production start-up at the Lapa South-West project is expected in 2025, increasing production from the Lapa field by 25,000 barrels of oil per day, bringing the overall production to 60,000 barrels of oil per day. It's worth noting that TotalEnergies was also part of a consortium that won the award of an offshore exploration block in December 2022, during the first cycle of Brazil’s open acreage under a production-sharing regime bid held in Rio de Janeiro.


TotalEnergies is a major player in the energy industry and this new oil development project is a significant investment for the company. The focus on low-cost, low-emissions assets is also in line with the industry's current trend towards sustainable energy production. This new project will help increase the company's production in the pre-salt Santos Basin, which is a key growth area for TotalEnergies. The expected production start-up in 2025 will bring an increase of 25,000 barrels of oil per day and will bring the overall production to 60,000 barrels of oil per day


French-headquartered energy giant TotalEnergies has approved a final investment decision (FID) for an oil development project located in the Santos Basin, 300 km off the coast of Brazil. TotalEnergies announced the FID for the Lapa South-West oil development project on Monday, 16 January 2023. The French player operates this project with a 45 per cent interest, in partnership with Shell (30 per cent) and Repsol Sinopec (25 per cent).


David Mendelson, Senior Vice President, Americas at TotalEnergies Exploration & Production, remarked: “This latest development is an important milestone for TotalEnergies in Brazil that will increase its operated production in the pre-salt Santos Basin, a key growth area for the company. With its efficient engineering approach and synergies with existing facilities, this project illustrates TotalEnergies’ strategy of focusing on low-cost, low-emissions assets.”


The Lapa South-West project will be developed through three wells, connected to an existing FPSO – located 12 km away – currently producing in the northeast part of the Lapa field since 2016. This development represents an investment of approximately $1 billion.

The Lapa field is a pre-salt oil and gas field in the Santos basin, which lies within the core pre-salt cluster area previously known as Carioca before its declaration of commerciality in December 2013. Discovered in 2007, the Lapa field’s full commercial production started in late 2016 through the 100,000 b/d FPSO Cidade de Caraguatatuba MV27. This FPSO has an oil processing capacity of 100,000 barrels a day, a gas processing capacity of 177 million cubic feet a day, an oil storage capacity of 1.6 million barrels and a water injection capacity of 120,000 barrels of water per day.


The production start-up at the Lapa South-West project is expected in 2025, increasing production from the Lapa field by 25,000 barrels of oil per day, bringing the overall production to 60,000 barrels of oil per day. It's worth noting that TotalEnergies was also part of a consortium that won the award of an offshore exploration block in December 2022, during the first cycle of Brazil’s open acreage under a production-sharing regime bid held in Rio de Janeiro.

TotalEnergies is a major player in the energy industry and this new oil development project is a significant investment for the company. The focus on low-cost, low-emissions assets is also in line with the industry's current trend towards sustainable energy production. This new project will help increase the company's production in the pre-salt Santos Basin, which is a key growth area for TotalEnergies. The expected production start-up in 2025 will bring an increase of 25,000 barrels of oil per day and will bring the overall production to 60,000 barrels of oil per day


Source: OFFSHORE ENERGY

#Brazil #LapaFPSO # Lapa South-West #RespsolSinopec #Shell #TotalEnergies

Comments

Hot Topics

Mercury, Contact Lead NZ's Supercritical Geothermal Energy Revolution

🌋 From the Ground Up: New Zealand’s Bold Leap into a Supercharged Geothermal Future By:  Robert Buluma In the heart of New Zealand, beneath the rugged volcanic landscapes and steaming geysers, lies an energy revolution waiting to erupt. On July 30th, 2025, a powerful message echoed from the geothermal capital of the Southern Hemisphere — New Zealand is not just embracing its geothermal potential; it is preparing to unleash it. With the unveiling of the draft strategy titled From the Ground Up , the government, led by Minister Shane Jones for Resources and Regional Development, signaled a transformative shift in how the nation will harness the heat beneath its feet — and it's as ambitious as it is inspiring. 🔥 A Legacy Forged in Steam New Zealand’s geothermal story is deeply rooted in its identity. Long before turbines spun and power grids buzzed, Māori ancestors were using geothermal waters for warmth, healing, and cooking. Geothermal, or waiwhatu , is more than a resource — ...

Pentagon Expands Geothermal Push to Strengthen Military Energy Security

Pentagon’s Power Play:  DoD Expands Geothermal Push to Fortify U.S. Military Energy Security By:  Robert Buluma In a move that blends cutting-edge clean energy technology with the uncompromising demands of national security, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is ramping up its geothermal initiatives to ensure mission assurance and round-the-clock power for military installations. The stakes are high — with threats from wildfires, extreme weather, cyberattacks, and power shortages looming larger than ever, the Pentagon is betting on geothermal’s resilience to keep bases operational no matter the conditions. A United Front for Energy Resilience Through the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) , the DoD is partnering with the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines to de-risk geothermal development and pave the way for full-scale power plant construction on military bases. Six geothermal innovators have been tapped for the mission: Eavor  – Pioneers in closed-loop geotherma...

Canada’s Bold Leap: Geothermal-Powered Communities Are Here

Powering Canada’s Future: A Landmark Geothermal Alliance Between Diverso Energy and Mattamy Homes By Robert Buluma , August 2025 Imagine a neighbourhood where homes stay comfortably warm in winter and refreshingly cool in summer—without relying on gas or expensive HVAC systems. Welcome to the new era of sustainable Canadian homebuilding, powered by a groundbreaking partnership between Diverso Energy and Mattamy Homes . What’s the Big News? Diverso Energy , a trailblazer in geothermal Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS), has joined forces with Mattamy Homes , one of North America’s largest privately-owned homebuilders, in a national joint venture to bring geothermal technology into select residential projects across Canada. Diverso will now be the exclusive provider of geothermal heating and cooling to Mattamy developments—from single-family homes and townhouses to mid-rise and high-rise multi-unit buildings. Why It Matters: Sustainable, Scalable, Smart This partnership ushers in a sc...

India’s High-Altitude Geothermal Breakthrough: Powering the Future from Ladakh’s Cold Desert

In the breathtaking heart of Ladakh’s cold desert, at an awe-inspiring altitude of 14,000 feet , India is on the verge of making renewable energy history. By:  Robert Buluma The  The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC (ONGC) is nearing completion of a groundbreaking geothermal well in Puga Valley , bringing the nation one giant step closer to its first-ever geothermal power generation project . This is not just another renewable energy venture  it’s a bold statement of self-reliance and innovation . Executed entirely with homegrown expertise, the project unfolds in one of the most challenging terrains on Earth  the extreme, unconsolidated Himalayan formations, where access is limited to specific seasons and the topography is as rugged as it is beautiful. Despite the obstacles, ONGC’s Energy Centre, in collaboration with  Seros Drilling Private Limited, , has pushed forward, proving that determination and engineering excellence can conquer even the most for...

Germany Maps 150+ Deep Geothermal Projects, 2000MW Planned

🌍 Germany’s Geothermal Boom: 2,000 MW in the Pipeline as New Map Reveals Over 150 Deep Geothermal Projects By: Robert Buluma Germany is turning up the heat—literally—on its clean energy future. A newly released map from the German Geothermal Energy Association (BVG) shows a dramatic surge in deep geothermal energy projects across the country. Titled "Deep Geothermal Projects in Germany," the map offers a comprehensive snapshot of over 150 geothermal projects currently in planning, with a staggering potential to generate up to 2,000 MW of thermal energy , and in some cases, electricity. 🔍 Current Geothermal Landscape in Germany According to the BVG, there are now: 42 operational deep geothermal plants 31 provide only heat 9 produce both heat and electricity 2 generate electricity exclusively 16 plants currently under construction 155 new plants in the planning phase 8 research facilities 170 thermal baths powered by geothermal sources The currently installed capacity stan...

Ormat Inks New Zealand Deal for World’s Largest Binary Geothermal Plant

💥  Ormat Inks New Zealand Deal for World’s Largest Binary Geothermal Plant 💥 By:  Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking development for geothermal energy,  Ormat Technologies has signed a new contract with Contact Energy Ltd. to construct the Tehuka 3 geothermal power plant in New Zealand. This marks Ormat’s 16th geothermal power plant in the country and solidifies New Zealand's growing reputation as a global geothermal powerhouse. 🔋 59 MW of Clean Energy Incoming Once completed, Tehuka 3 will generate 59 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy—enough to power thousands of homes and industries with clean electricity. Notably, Tehuka 3 is set to become the largest single geothermal binary unit operational plant in the world, representing a new milestone in binary cycle technology. 🌋 Built on Trust, Powered by Tauhara This contract marks the third collaboration between Ormat and Contact Energy, underscoring a trusted partnership. The Tehuka 3 plant will be located near the exi...

Innargi Deep: Seismic Surveys Spark Geothermal Heating RevolutionHeading: Łódź DiINNARGI Digs Deep: Seismic Surveys Spark Geothermal Heating Revolutiong Revolution

🌍 Seismic Surveys Kick Off Geothermal Exploration in Łódź Why Łódź is Going Underground for Clean Heat By:  Robert Buluma In an exciting development for climate-focused energy innovation, the Danish company Innargi has teamed up with Veolia Energia Łódź to explore the geothermal potential beneath the city of Łódź, Poland. A letter of intent signed in late 2024 formalized their long-term partnership to decarbonize the city's district heating system by tapping into renewable geothermal resources. Mapping the Earth: What’s Happening & When Starting around August 11, 2025 , seismic surveys are scheduled to begin across four routes covering approximately 160–186 km throughout the city. Specialized vibro‑trucks will send controlled vibrations—lasting roughly 20 seconds—into the ground. These signals are captured by geophones placed in advance along the planned routes. The data will be used to build a detailed subsurface map in just 4 weeks . Survey operations are prima...

Arunachal Pradesh to Host India’s First Fully Indigenous 50 kW Geothermal Power Plant

Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh — In a landmark initiative for renewable energy innovation, India is set to commission its first fully indigenous 50 kW geothermal power plant in the Himalayan state of Arunachal Pradesh. By:  Robert Buluma Why it matters Operating at an unusually low geothermal temperature of just 68 °C , the project showcases India’s capability to harness Earth’s heat even at smaller scales. Designed to benefit about 5,000 residents in remote communities of Tawang district—Mago, Thingbu, and Damteng—it represents a decentralized model for clean energy supply. Who’s behind it The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) and Shriram Institute for Industrial Research (SIIR) have formalized their collaboration to carry the project forward. Their earlier work includes a 20 kW pilot using the same indigenous bipolar-process technology, preceded by trials with a 5 kW lab-scale model. Tech innovation at the core According to project insiders, trial campaigns ...

Germany Digs Deep: Fast-Tracking Geothermal Energy to Heat the Future

Germany Supercharges Geothermal Energy for a Carbon-Free Future Germany has just lit a fire under its clean energy transition only this time, the heat is coming from deep underground. By:  Robert Buluma On August 6, 2025, the government approved a bold bill to fast-track geothermal projects across the country. The move could transform how millions of homes and businesses are heated, slashing carbon emissions and cutting dependence on fossil fuels. What’s Changing Faster Approvals: No more endless waiting—geothermal plants, district heating lines, heat pumps, and thermal storage will get priority treatment. Overriding Public Interest: Geothermal now ranks alongside wind and solar, unlocking faster permits and smoother planning. Looser Exploration Rules: Drilling and subsurface studies will face fewer restrictions. Why It Matters Geothermal could supply over a quarter of Germany’s heating needs —and it’s available 24/7, rain or shine. With 42 plants already running and 16 more un...

Total Energies Nominates Alphaxioms For The Startupper of The Year Challenge,Lets Vote❤️🎉👏

Alphaxioms: Pioneering the Path to a Sustainable Future By:  Teflon Don As the world grapples with the urgent need to combat climate change, innovative solutions and expert consultancy in renewable energy are paramount. Enter Alphaxioms , a dynamic player in the renewable energy sector, offering cutting-edge consultancy services across various domains including geothermal, solar, wind, energy evacuation, nuclear, hydrogen, and lithium.  Alphaxioms has been instrumental in driving sustainable energy projects, helping companies transition to greener practices and technologies. Why Alphaxioms ? With a proven track record,  Alphaxioms has been at the forefront of renewable energy consultancy. Their expertise spans multiple renewable energy sources, ensuring that projects not only come to fruition but do so with maximum efficiency and sustainability. Here’s how they are making an impact: Geothermal Energy : Unlocking the earth’s heat for clean power. Solar Energy : Harnessing...