Well 271-KA03PT06 Hits 188 Mscfd with 98.5% Methane, Surpassing Expectations
Kinetiko Energy's latest gas flow test at well 271-KA03PT06 in South Africa delivers record extended flow rates, significantly boosting the commercial outlook for its Brakfontein gas cluster.
- Extended flow test achieves peak 188 Mscfd gas production over 14 days
- Methane content recorded at a high 98.5%, enhancing gas quality
- Flow rate more than doubles previous well 271-KA03PT10 results
- Supports positive economics confirmed by independent certifier Sproule B.V.
- Pilot LNG plant construction planned for 2026 to utilise cluster output
Record Gas Flow Rates at Brakfontein
Kinetiko Energy has announced a breakthrough in its South African gas exploration project with production test well 271-KA03PT06 delivering an extended gas flow rate of up to 188 million standard cubic feet per day (Mscfd) over a continuous 14-day period. This result more than doubles the flow rates achieved by the company's previous well, 271-KA03PT10, marking a significant milestone in the commercial viability of the Brakfontein gas cluster.
Exceptional Gas Quality Enhances Economics
The gas produced from well 271-KA03PT06 boasts a methane content of approximately 98.5%, which is notably high and beneficial for downstream processing and market value. This purity level, combined with the sustained high flow rates, improves the economic outlook for the project, reinforcing the findings of an independent assessment by Sproule B.V. The certifier had previously indicated that a flow rate of 50 Mscfd would support positive economics, making the current results materially more attractive.
Strategic Development of the Brakfontein Cluster
Well 271-KA03PT06 is part of a seven-well production cluster in the Brakfontein area of Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. The cluster is poised to supply gas to a planned micro liquefied natural gas (LNG) pilot plant, with construction scheduled to commence in 2026. The pilot plant aims to demonstrate commercial gas production and establish a foundation for scaling up operations in a region transitioning away from coal-fired power generation.
Ongoing Testing and Future Prospects
Kinetiko is continuing gas flow testing on both wells 271-KA03PT06 and 271-KA03PT10 to gather further data on depletion curves and long-term production sustainability. These insights will be critical for refining reserve estimates and economic models. Executive Chairman Adam Sierakowski expressed confidence that the optimised drilling techniques and geological characteristics underpin the project's strong potential.
Positioning for South Africa's Energy Transition
As South Africa seeks to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on aging coal infrastructure, Kinetiko's shallow conventional gas resources offer a promising alternative. The company holds substantial contingent resources, with prior announcements citing 6 trillion cubic feet of 2C contingent resources. The latest flow test results add momentum to Kinetiko's vision of delivering a reliable, cleaner energy solution that can support base load power and complement renewable energy sources.
Bottom Line?
Kinetiko’s record gas flow rates at Brakfontein signal a pivotal step toward commercial gas production and South Africa’s energy future.
Questions in the middle?
- How will ongoing depletion curve data affect long-term production forecasts?
- What are the timelines and capital requirements for scaling beyond the pilot LNG plant?
- How might regional energy policy shifts impact Kinetiko’s project development?