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BP and Bunge to create world-class bioenergy company in Brazil

23/07/2019
  • Brings together established industry players with complementary assets and experience in one of world’s largest fast-growing biofuels markets
  • Creates highly-efficient producer of ethanol and low-carbon biopower, with opportunities for synergies, operational performance, modernisation and future growth
  • Combination will grow BP’s existing biofuels business by more than 50%

BP has agreed to form a 50:50 joint venture with Bunge – a leader in agriculture, food and ingredients - that will create a leading bioenergy company in one of the world’s largest fastgrowing markets for biofuels.

BP will combine its Brazilian biofuels and biopower businesses with that of Bunge to create a world-scale, highly-efficient producer of sugarcane ethanol in Brazil, BP Bunge Bioenergia. BP’s interest in the new venture will grow its existing biofuels business by more than 50%.

Ethanol produced from sugarcane is one of the most carbon-efficient biofuels available globally, with lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions around 70% lower than conventional hydrocarbon transport fuels. Brazil is the world’s second largest and most integrated market for ethanol as a transportation fuel with demand forecast to grow rapidly. The majority of vehicles in the country - around 70% - are already able to run on ethanol and the country’s demand for ethanol is estimated to increase by around 70% by 2030.

Bob Dudley, BP group chief executive, said: 
“This is another large-scale example of BP’s commitment to play a leading role in a rapid transition to a low carbon future. Biofuels will be an essential part of delivering the energy transition and Brazil is leading the way in showing how they can be used at scale, reducing emissions from transport. This combination will unlock new possibilities for improved efficiency and future growth in this key market."

Gregory A. Heckman, Bunge’s Chief Executive Officer, said: 
“This joint venture with BP, one of the world’s leading energy companies, represents a major portfolio optimization milestone for Bunge. We are proud of what our team has done to evolve our sugar and bioenergy business as an industry leader. I am confident that this team, and the strong commitment from a global leader such as BP, will create even greater shareholder value.” 

Link to BP Brazil country profile   l   KeyFacts Energy: Renewable Energy news

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