The use of energy sources such as natural gas and petroleum is part of Vale’s strategic long-term objective of diversifying and optimizing its energy supplies. We believe that in future, natural gas will be an increasingly important global energy source, due to its advantages of lower carbon emissions and greater power generation flexibility.
In 2007, the company entered the oil and gas exploration industry, and is now one of the largest holders of stakes in exploration blocks in Brazil.
Vale’s exploration portfolio contains interests in 19 blocks in four Brazilian oil basins. Since 2008, 14 wells have been drilled in Brazil, resulting in 5 discoveries in the Santos and Espírito Santo basins. These assets are still in the testing and reserve determination phase.
Green Train
Launched in 2009, Green Train is an unprecedented project in Brazil to use a mixture of natural gas and diesel to power Vale’s locomotives, thereby cutting CO2 emissions.