Wärtsilä has been awarded an order as part of the ongoing Brazilian programme to build a number of drill units (DRUs). The company will supply complete mechanical packages, comprising the generating sets and thrusters, for three new drill ships to be built by Brazilian shipyard ECOVIX.
The contract was signed in November 2012. The three new vessels will be employed in Brazil's pre-salt offshore oil fields. They will each be powered by six Wärtsilä 32 generating sets and will feature six Wärtsilä underwater de-mountable thrusters. Delivery of the equipment will begin in 2013.
Pre-salt Fields
A recent report by the International Energy Agency's (IEA) monthly Oil Market Report forecasts world oil demand reaching 95 million barrels per day in 2016. Extending 500 miles across the Santos, Campos and Espirito Santo basins, Brazil's pre-salt fields hold an estimated 10 to 16 billion barrels. These resources could eventually result in Brazil becoming one of the largest producers of oil in the world. This has led to tremendous growth in the country's shipbuilding industry, and large investments in offshore drilling and platform supply vessels.
Wärtsilä has had operations in Brazil for more than twenty years and currently employs more than 600 people locally.
Brazil Special in SWZ Maritime's December Issue
SWZ Maritime's coming issue features a country special on Brazil. The special will feature articles on companies currently active in Brazil, archaeology in Brazilian waters, the Brazilian maritime market, inland shipping in Brazil and what it is like for a Dutchman to work and live in Brazil. Do not miss it!
