The Superintendence of the 7th Fiscal Region of Rio de Janeiro, through Executive Declaratory Act SRRF07 No. 7 of /2025, has granted customs authorization to the floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) Karmol Asia, operated by Karpowership Brasil Energia Ltda (KPS). The measure marks a new milestone in the logistical and energy development of the Port of Itaguaí.
With this decision, the Customs Office of the Port of Itaguaí (/IGI) now counts 13 customs-approved terminals, consolidating its position as one of Brazil’s most strategic logistical hubs. The /IGI played a key role in enabling the authorization process, ensuring full compliance with all legal and operational requirements to allow the start of customs operations at KPS’s terminal — now authorized to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) for storage and regasification.
The operation, based on the LNG-to-Power model, converts LNG — imported in liquid form at -160°C — into natural gas ready for electricity generation. The gas is stored on the FSRU and, when activated by the National System Operator (ONS), powers four floating thermal power plants (Powerships) capable of generating up to 560 MW, supplying Brazil’s national grid through Furnas’ infrastructure.
This energy plays a crucial role during low hydroelectric reservoir periods, with KPS recognized as the fastest power producer to respond to ONS demand — typically at the end of the afternoon, when energy consumption peaks and solar generation decreases.
According to José Antônio da Veiga Calado Filho, head auditor of /IGI, the authorization of the unit represents a major gain in efficiency for Brazil: “With the customs authorization, LNG clearance becomes faster, reducing operational costs and increasing predictability and security in energy supply,” emphasized one of the auditors responsible for the process.
The KPS project not only represents one of the largest recent foreign investments in Brazil’s energy sector, but also stands as the largest bilateral investment by a Turkish group in the country, generating qualified jobs and positively impacting the local economy, particularly in Itaguaí.
In addition to LNG operations, the company has invested in solar energy in the municipality, reaffirming its commitment to clean,sustainable sources. The entire operation is monitored for environmental impacts to ensure there is no air or water contamination in Sepetiba Bay, one of Rio de Janeiro’s most sensitive ecosystems.
The Federal Revenue Service, through the Itaguaí Customs Office, has demonstrated readiness to meet the challenges brought by technological innovation, striving to balance operational agility with security and legality in foreign trade operations.
The new terminal strengthens not only the strategic importance of the Port of Itaguaí within Brazil’s energy matrix but also highlights the essential role of the Federal Revenue Service as a facilitator of sustainable economic development.
Source: Receita Federal
