HyTerra Breaks New Ground with McCoy 1 Well and Hydrogen Signals at Nemaha

Strategic Expansion of Drilling Program

HyTerra Limited has announced a significant update to its Nemaha Project in Kansas, USA, increasing the number of wells planned for drilling from two to three between April and July 2025. The newly added McCoy 1 well represents a pivotal moment for the company, as it moves beyond replicating historical wells and instead selects drilling locations based on proprietary geological insights and in-house intellectual property. This approach signals a maturation in HyTerra’s exploration strategy, leveraging advanced geophysical surveys and reprocessed seismic data to target promising subsurface structures.

Geological Innovation and Operational Efficiency

McCoy 1 will be drilled approximately 9 kilometres east of the initial Sue Duroche 3 well, situated on the crest of the Nemaha Ridge geological formation. The site was identified through HyTerra’s 2023 Xcalibur Airborne Gravity Gradiometry and Magnetic survey combined with legacy seismic data reprocessed this year. The company’s ability to build and test geological models without relying on offset well twinning differentiates it from many peers in the emerging natural hydrogen sector. Operationally, the Murfin Rig 116 is scheduled to mobilise to McCoy 1 after a planned crew break and routine maintenance, with spudding expected in early July.

Encouraging Signs from Blythe 13-20 Well

Meanwhile, the recently completed Blythe 13-20 well drilled to a depth of 1,615 metres has delivered early indications of a hydrogen and helium play. Real-time mud gas logs recorded gas readings at multiple intervals, suggesting the presence of these gases in the subsurface. Samples collected at surface have been sent to Isotech Laboratories Inc. for independent verification and compositional analysis. While these findings are promising, the company cautions that mud gas logs carry inherent uncertainties due to operational and geological factors, and final confirmation awaits laboratory results.

Global Recognition and Industry Engagement

HyTerra’s progress has attracted growing attention from global geological communities and media. The company has accepted an invitation to present at the upcoming Natural Hydrogen event hosted by The Geological Society in London, underscoring its emerging profile in the natural hydrogen exploration space. Presentation materials will be made publicly available ahead of the event, offering further insight into HyTerra’s exploration methodology and findings.

Balancing Opportunity with Risk

Despite the positive developments, HyTerra acknowledges the significant geological and commercial risks inherent in pioneering natural hydrogen exploration. The presence, concentration, and recoverability of hydrogen and helium remain uncertain, and the company’s future success depends on navigating these challenges. Funding for the Nemaha Project’s exploration program is supported by Fortescue Future Industries Technologies Pty Ltd, reflecting confidence in HyTerra’s approach but also highlighting the importance of delivering tangible results.