Kinetiko Energy reports a peak gas flow rate of 370 Mscfd from its optimised drilling at the Brakfontein well 271-KA03PT10, advancing its South African gas project.
- Optimised drilling procedures deliver strong initial gas flow
- Peak gas flow rate of 370 Mscfd achieved during choke test
- 144m net pay zone confirmed via geophysical logging
- Extended flow testing underway to stabilise production rates
- Next production test well drilling to commence within 7 days
Optimised Drilling Yields Promising Gas Flow
Kinetiko Energy Ltd (ASX, KKO) has announced encouraging results from its latest production test well, 271-KA03PT10, located at Brakfontein in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province. Using drilling procedures optimised through detailed laboratory testing and expert recommendations, the company achieved a peak gas flow rate of 370 million standard cubic feet per day (Mscfd) during a choke test. This strong initial flow rate marks a significant step forward for Kinetiko’s efforts to commercialise its shallow conventional gas resources.
Substantial Net Pay Zone Confirmed
Geophysical logging of the well confirmed a 144-metre net pay zone within a total depth of 417 metres, predominantly sandstone formations within the Lower Karoo geological sequence. This sizeable gas-bearing interval supports the company’s view of Brakfontein as a commercially viable gas resource. The well’s proximity to historic production test wells positions it as a key component in establishing an initial cluster of producing wells to supply Kinetiko’s planned micro LNG pilot plant.
Ongoing Testing and Expansion Plans
While the peak flow rate is promising, Kinetiko is conducting extended flow rate testing to determine a stabilised production rate, which will provide a clearer picture of the well’s long-term output potential. Results from this testing are expected in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the drill rig is being mobilised to a nearby site to commence drilling of the next production test well, 271-KA03PT6, which will further contribute to the developing well cluster.
Strategic Importance for South Africa’s Energy Transition
Kinetiko’s projects are strategically located near South Africa’s aging coal-fired power infrastructure, positioning natural gas as a cleaner alternative to support the country’s energy transition. The company’s vision is to provide base load and backup power to complement renewable energy sources, leveraging its substantial contingent gas resources estimated at 6 trillion cubic feet. The successful optimisation of drilling techniques and early production results bolster confidence in the project’s scalability and economic potential.
Looking Ahead
Executive Chairman Adam Sierakowski highlighted the significance of the results, noting that the technical adjustments have delivered immediate success and validated the capacity of Brakfontein to produce commercial gas volumes. As Kinetiko accelerates its drilling program and moves closer to first LNG sales, market watchers will be keenly awaiting further flow test data and updates on the pilot plant’s progress.
Bottom Line?
Kinetiko’s latest drilling success sets the stage for a critical phase in proving commercial gas production in South Africa.
Questions in the middle?
- What stabilised flow rates will the extended testing reveal for well 271-KA03PT10?
- How quickly can Kinetiko scale up production to supply the micro LNG pilot plant?
- What are the potential cost and timeline implications for transitioning from test wells to commercial operations?