Transfer of operatorship from Petrobras was approved by the Brazilian authorities. Total and Petrobras each now have a 41.2% interest in the concession, with BP holding the remaining 17.6 %.
The Xerelete field, 250 km (155 mi) offshore Rio de Janeiro and 40 km (24.8 mi) west of the recent Pão de Açucar find, was discovered in 2001 in water depths of 2,400 m (7,874 ft). It contains relatively heavy oil (17° to 20° API).
Apresalt prospect has also been identified below the Xerelete structure. Total plans to start drilling activities in 2013.
The company also has a 20 % interest in block BM-S-54, where the Gato do Mato discovery currently is being appraised.
