Equinor starts Peregrino Phase 2 production

Equinor ASA started oil production at Peregrino C platform in Brazil’s Campos basin as part of Peregrino field’s Phase 2 development. The project is expected to extend the life of Peregrino field to 2040, add 250-300 million bbl of oil, and halve expected CO₂ emissions/bbl over the remaining life of the field, the company said Oct. 13.

The project was delayed from its expected 2020 start by COVID-19-related workforce cuts during the hook-up phase, but still delivered within the $3 billion cost estimate, the company said.

Phase 1 consisted of a FPSO unit supported by well head platforms Peregrino A and Peregrino B. Phase 2, expected to increase field production to 110,000 b/d at plateau, is comprised of Peregrino C with drilling equipment and living quarters tied to the FPSO and a new pipeline importing gas to the platform for power generation.

In Phase 2, power generation on Peregrino C was switched to gas from diesel—a move expected to avoid 100,000 tonnes/year of CO₂  emissions from the field.

Peregrino is the largest field operated by Equinor outside of Norway and the first of a series of major field developments in Brazil. Remaining reserves from Peregrino Phase 1 are estimated at 180 million bbl (OGJ Online, July 19, 2022).

Equinor is operator at Peregrino (60%) with partner Sinochem (40%).