Karoon makes a splash

The previously exploration-focused firm has expanded its footprint offshore Brazil and is now eyeing further production opportunities

The aggressive divestment drive of Brazilian state oil company Petrobras has attracted the attention of many operators over the past year. Australia-based explorer Karoon Energy was one that pounced early—snapping up the mature Bauna field from Petrobras in November—and soon after transitioning into becoming a producer for the first time. And offshore Brazil is central to Karoon’s long-term growth. In early June, the firm reached FID at the Patola field—where investment is expected to reach around $175-195mn—in the southern Santos basin and has since begun assessing whether to push for FID at its Neon and Goia fields. Petroleum Economist spoke with CEO Julian Fowles to learn more about Karoo