Emperor Energy secures independent validation of its Judith Gas Field resources, boosting unrisked prospective volumes to 1.86 trillion cubic feet and setting sights on a mid-2026 appraisal well to advance development.
- GaffneyCline confirms 2C Contingent Resource of 166 Bcf in Judith East Block
- P50 Prospective Resource of 142 Bcf in deeper Longtom Gas Sands
- Total unrisked prospective resources increased from 1.63 Tcf to 1.86 Tcf
- Judith-2 appraisal well scheduled for mid-2026 with jack-up rig plans
- Strategic farm-out and partnership process to commence soon
Independent Audit Boosts Confidence in Judith Gas Field
Emperor Energy (ASX, EMP) has announced a significant upgrade to its gas resource estimates following an independent audit by global petroleum consultancy GaffneyCline. The audit validates a 2C Contingent Resource of 166 billion cubic feet (Bcf) within the Judith East Block of the Gippsland Basin, Victoria, and confirms a P50 Prospective Resource of 142 Bcf in the underlying Longtom Gas Sands. This brings the total unrisked prospective resources across the Judith Gas Field to 1.86 trillion cubic feet (Tcf), up from the previous estimate of 1.63 Tcf.
Technical Rigor Underpins Resource Upgrade
The resource upgrade is underpinned by a comprehensive package of modern 3D seismic data acquired in 2020, detailed petrophysical analysis of the Judith-1 discovery well, and rigorous volumetric modeling. GaffneyCline independently verified reservoir parameters and seismic interpretations, including amplitude versus offset (AVO) attributes, confirming the presence of mobile gas and reservoir permeabilities supportive of commercial flow rates. This multi-disciplinary approach has bolstered confidence in the resource base and the potential commercial viability of the project.
Strategic Development and Appraisal Plans
Building on the audit, Emperor Energy plans to drill an appraisal well, Judith-2, in mid-2026. The well will twin the original Judith-1 discovery well and include an up-dip sidetrack targeting the adjacent Judith North-East block, which holds a P50 Prospective Resource of 379 Bcf. The company is actively pursuing environmental approvals through NOPSEMA and intends to secure a jack-up rig currently operating nearby in the Gippsland Basin. This appraisal campaign aims to validate resource estimates and advance the project toward commercial development.
Proximity to Infrastructure and Market Relevance
The Judith Gas Field benefits from its proximity to existing offshore infrastructure, including the Tuna Platform operated by Exxon and Woodside just 14 kilometres away, and the Orbost Gas Plant onshore, 40 kilometres distant. This strategic location could facilitate cost-effective development and tie-in, enhancing the project's attractiveness amid Australia's East Coast gas supply challenges driven by declining production from southern gas fields.
Engagement with Strategic Partners and Future Outlook
Emperor Energy holds 100% of the VIC/P47 permit, providing flexibility for deal structuring and farm-out opportunities. A formal strategic partnering process is set to commence shortly, aiming to attract investment for the appraisal drilling and subsequent development phases. The company is also reviewing development scenarios and exploring potential regional consolidation to scale the project and improve marketability.
Bottom Line?
With independent validation secured and appraisal drilling on the horizon, Emperor Energy is poised to play a pivotal role in easing Australia's East Coast gas supply pressures.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the Judith-2 appraisal well confirm commercial flow rates and resource volumes as projected?
- How will Emperor structure partnerships or farm-outs to finance development and share risk?
- What timeline and regulatory hurdles remain before commercial production can commence?