MPX is developing an the largest thermoelectric complex in construction in Brazil that will be fuelled by the natural gas produced at OGX Maranhão exploration block, in the Parnaíba Basin (MA), in which MPX owns a significant stake.
This power generation plant christened UTE Parnaíba, will be built in a strategic location: in the municipality of Santo Antônio dos Lopes, over the gas field and close to President Dutra transmission substation.
The volume of resources that could be potentially exploited in this reservoir points to the feasibility of the construction of a big thermoelectric complex with capacity up to 4.000 MW. This plant features combined cycle and open cycle modules, adding flexibility to the use of natural gas and energy trade.
UTE Parnaíba – a joint venture between MPX, OGX Maranhão and Petra Energia S.A. – is yet another example of synergy between EBX Group companies when it comes to production chain integration.
In August, the National Power Agency (Aneel) issued the required approval for the acquisition of the Bertin MC2 Joinville e MC2 João Neiva projects by MPX. These projects have already been granted authorizations for the construction of natural gas-burning thermoelectric plants featuring 680 MW capacity.
Also in August, MPX was the awarded bidder of the A-3 power auction, firmly establishing itself as one of the leading private investors in the Brazilian power sector. Over R$ 6.5 billion were contracted for a period of 20 years, from a combined cycle 500 MW installed capacity natural gas-fired plant that will be built in the municipality of Santo Antônio dos Lopes, inland in the state of Maranhão.
In 2011, MPX provided training to 200 people in the municipalities of Santo Antonio Lopes and Capinzal do Norte where Parnaíba thermoelectric plant is under construction. In 2012, other 300 students were trained in the municipalities of Santo Antonio Lopes, Capinzal and Pedreiras.
Investment
R$2.6 billion (Parnaíba - phases I and II).