Newsletter

The XI Marine Resources Sectoral Plan (PSRM, the acronym in Portuguese) has recently been published, establishing guidelines to transform Brazil's marine resources' strategic and sustainable use by 2027. So, how will this initiative impact the offshore energy sector?

The PSRM emerges as a response to the need to integrate the rational and sustainable use of marine resources with the country’s economic development. This publication reflects Brazil's pursuit of technological innovation while strengthening its sovereignty over maritime areas.

For the offshore energy sector, the XI PSRM presents a significant development opportunity. The plan aims to foster research and the development of new technologies essential for advancing energy exploration and production at sea.

The strategic plan establishes the foundation for:

• The sustainable exploration of living and non-living marine resources, reinforcing Brazil’s commitment to environmental protection.
• The promotion of research and technological development, which is crucial for advancing offshore exploration.
• The consolidation of policies that ensure Brazil's sovereignty and international competitiveness in the utilization of marine resources.

Impacts on the offshore sector:

• Spatial Planning and Management: The PSRM promotes the implementation of Marine Spatial Planning (PEM, the acronym in Portuguese), which organizes economic activities in the maritime environment, including the offshore sector. This initiative aims to mitigate conflicts and provide legal certainty for investments in offshore wind energy and oil and gas exploration.
• Encouragement of Innovation and Sustainability: The plan encourages the sustainable use of marine resources, such as the exploration of renewable energies (offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy). Furthermore, it promotes research into the mineral potential of the seabed, strengthening the foundation for technological and economic advances in the sector.
• Strategy and Governance: Under the coordination of the Navy and the Ministry of the Environment, the PSRM establishes strategic guidelines to ensure harmony between economic development and environmental preservation, safeguarding Brazil's international competitiveness in the offshore sector.
• Boosting Offshore Energy Expansion: Brazil's offshore sector plays a strategic role, accounting for over 97% of the country’s oil production and 84% of its natural gas. With the implementation of the XI PSRM, Brazil’s coastline is also preparing to host offshore wind generation projects, further diversifying its energy matrix.

The XI PSRM represents a significant milestone for Brazil, positioning the ocean as one of the country's strategic assets. By integrating governance, technological innovation, and sustainability, it promotes a balance between economic development and environmental preservation.

This alert was prepared by partner Daniela Davila and associate Fernanda Aquino, both from the Energy & Natural Resources: Oil and Gas team. They are available to clarify any questions and assess potential scenarios.