Prominence Energy Limited has secured a pivotal natural hydrogen exploration license in South Australia, marking a major step forward for its Gawler Hydrogen Project and positioning it among the state’s leading clean energy explorers.
- Award of PEL 803 grants 100% working interest and operatorship to PRM
- License covers 2,799km² on the Archean Gawler Craton, rich in hydrogen and helium potential
- Acquisition of Gawler Hydrogen Project nearing completion, expected by end of Q3 2025
- Exploration programs to commence soon, leveraging new low-impact technologies
- Growing international investment interest highlighted by recent Japanese strategic funding in sector peers
A Strategic Win in South Australia’s Emerging Hydrogen Sector
Prominence Energy Limited (ASX – PRM) has achieved a significant milestone with the formal award of Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) 803, a key component of its Gawler Hydrogen Project. This license, covering nearly 2,800 square kilometres on the Archean-aged Gawler Craton, places PRM among an elite group of just four natural hydrogen explorers in South Australia, a region increasingly recognised for its clean energy potential.
The award follows more than three years of dedicated groundwork and marks the culmination of PRM’s strategic acquisition of Gawler Group Holdings Pty Ltd, which includes PEL 803 and several other exploration license applications. Subject to final regulatory approvals, expected by the end of the third quarter of 2025, PRM will hold full operatorship and a 100% working interest in this highly prospective license.
Unlocking Natural Hydrogen and Helium Potential
PEL 803 sits within the Eyre Project area of the broader Gawler Hydrogen Project, a zone characterised by geological features conducive to natural hydrogen and helium accumulation. The presence of radiogenic Hiltaba Granites and localised uranium deposits suggests natural processes that could generate hydrogen gas, while geophysical data points to a possible crustal mantle plume facilitating hydrogen migration to the surface.
Preliminary studies have identified favourable conditions for reservoir, migration, and trapping mechanisms essential for natural hydrogen and helium exploration. PRM plans to fast-track exploration activities using innovative, low-impact technologies designed to mature these plays efficiently, with drilling and resource assessments anticipated in 2026.
Riding the Wave of Global Investment Confidence
The timing of PRM’s license award coincides with a surge of international interest in South Australia’s natural hydrogen sector. Notably, Gold Hydrogen Ltd, a peer operating nearby, recently secured a A$14.5 million strategic investment from major Japanese energy corporations, underscoring the global confidence in the region’s hydrogen prospects. This follows other high-profile investments from industry giants such as Fortescue Ltd, BP Ventures, and Amazon’s Climate Fund into natural hydrogen ventures worldwide.
PRM’s positioning on the Gawler Craton alongside these peers offers substantial leverage as exploration activity accelerates. The company’s upcoming $1.75 million capital placement will support the completion of the acquisition and fund near-term exploration programs, setting the stage for PRM to emerge as a key player in the clean energy transition.
Looking Ahead
With regulatory approvals pending, PRM is poised to commence exploration on PEL 803 imminently. The company’s strategic flexibility, afforded by full operatorship and ownership, enables it to pursue targeted funding opportunities and adapt its exploration approach as new data emerges. As natural hydrogen gains traction as a zero-carbon fuel source, PRM’s progress will be closely watched by investors and industry observers alike.
Bottom Line?
PRM’s license award and acquisition near completion signal a promising leap into South Australia’s natural hydrogen frontier.
Questions in the middle?
- When exactly will regulatory approvals be finalized to complete the Gawler Hydrogen Project acquisition?
- What specific exploration technologies will PRM deploy to assess hydrogen and helium potential?
- How might recent international investments influence PRM’s strategic partnerships and funding opportunities?