Rio Grande, Brazil | January 15, 2016 – Energy giant Petrobras has officially entered into a long-term supply agreement with Norwegian shipping giant Odfjell SE, marking a major milestone in the expansion of Brazil’s renewable marine fuel footprint. Under the terms of the deal, Petrobras will supply its proprietary VLS B24 bio-bunker blend to Odfjell’s chemical tanker fleet throughout 2026.
The agreement, announced on January 15, 2026, stipulates the delivery of up to 12,000 metric tons of the low-carbon fuel. The operation will be centered at the Rio Grande Terminal (TERIG) in southern Brazil, where Petrobras will manage both the precision blending and the delivery via dedicated barges.
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Technical Specifications: VLS B24
The VLS B24 product is a “drop-in” solution designed for seamless integration into existing marine engines without requiring mechanical modifications.
- Composition: A blend of 76% conventional Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and 24% biodiesel (FAME – Fatty Acid Methyl Ester).
- Emissions Profile: Engineered to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by approximately 20% on a lifecycle basis compared to 100% mineral fuels.
- Compliance: Meets the ISO 8217:2017 international standard and holds the ISCC EU (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification).
- Regulatory Alignment: The fuel specifically addresses the stringent requirements of FuelEU Maritime, which mandates a progressive reduction in the carbon intensity of fuels for vessels calling at European ports.
Strategic Context: 2026-2030 Business Plan
This partnership is a direct pillar of Petrobras’ 2026-2030 Business Plan, which prioritizes the transition to a low-carbon market. By securing a high-profile international client like Odfjell, which operates a fleet of over 70 specialized vessels, Petrobras is positioning Brazil as a competitive hub for sustainable bunkering.
“The commercialization of VLS B24 with a company of Odfjell’s international caliber demonstrates our consistent progress toward a low-carbon market,” stated Claudio Schlosser, Petrobras Director of Logistics, Commercialization, and Markets. “This initiative generates immediate business value while providing concrete decarbonization solutions.”
Strengthening the Norway-Brazil “Green Corridor”
The deal also reinforces the Green Shipping Corridor established between Brazil and Norway in February 2025. This bilateral initiative aims to decarbonize the maritime trade route between the two nations, encouraging the use of alternative fuels and sustainable technologies.
For Odfjell, the contract ensures a reliable supply of certified biofuels in the South Atlantic, supporting their global commitment to reducing fleet-wide carbon intensity. Odfjell’s extensive presence in South America, supported by its São Paulo office, makes the Rio Grande supply point a strategic logistical fit for its chemical and liquid bulk operations.
About Odfjell
Established in 1914 and headquartered in Bergen, Norway, Odfjell is a global market leader in the seaborne transportation and storage of chemicals and other specialized bulk liquids. Operating a highly sophisticated fleet of approximately 70 vessels and four terminals worldwide, Odfjell pioneered the chemical tanker trade and is committed to safe, efficient, and sustainable logistics.
About Petrobras
Petrobras, officially known as Petróleo Brasileiro S.A., stands as Brazil’s largest energy corporation and one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies by market capitalization. With operations spanning across exploration, production, refining, and distribution, Petrobras plays a pivotal role in Brazil’s economy and global energy markets.
The company has a proven track record in technological innovation and sustainable practices, exemplified by its pioneering efforts in deep-water oil exploration and commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Petrobras continues to lead the way in advancing Brazil’s energy independence and promoting environmental stewardship in the energy sector.
Source: Petrobras