The ANP Board of Directors approved today (10/28) the possibility of suspension of concession contracts, whose exploration phase ends between the publication of CNPE resolution No. 12/2021 (9/28/2021) and the publication of the resolution of the ANP. The objective is to ensure the right of concessionaires to have the option of taking advantage of the ANP resolution in the future, extending the Exploration Phase for the contracts currently in force.

The resolution of the National Energy Policy Council (CNPE) determined that the ANP should assess the adoption of measures aimed at extending the exploration phase of the contracts. The objectives are to minimize the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the industry and avoid the termination of contracts without carrying out the committed exploratory activities, preserving the national interest regarding the maintenance of the investments committed in these contracts. The exploration phase is the first phase of the contracts, in which companies carry out studies and activities (seismic, well drilling, etc.) to identify the presence of oil and/or natural gas in the contracted area.

The ANP is preparing a resolution that will bring necessary criteria and procedures for the (possible) extension, in compliance with CNPE Resolution 12/2021, of September 28, 2021. With the measure approved today, the Agency guarantees that the contracts in force at the time publication of the Resolution, but with a close end date (that is, their exploration phase would possibly have ended before the publication of the ANP resolution), may remain suspended until the Agency publishes the new standard. From then on, they would be resumed and could request an extension.

From now on, the ANP will send an official letter to the operators whose contracts are close to the end of the exploration phase.