Elevated Hydrogen and Helium Gas Shows Recorded at McCoy 1, Production Test Set for 2026
HyTerra Limited reports encouraging hydrogen and helium gas flows from its McCoy 1 well in Kansas, setting the stage for a production test in 2026.
- Elevated hydrogen and helium gas flows recorded in McCoy 1 well
- Real-time monitoring during swabbing confirms dynamic gas shows
- Production testing planned for 2026 after winter season
- Wellhead samples from multiple wells confirm geologic hydrogen and helium
- Projects target low-carbon natural hydrogen near industrial hubs
Encouraging Gas Shows at McCoy 1
HyTerra Limited (ASX, HYT) has announced elevated hydrogen and helium gas flows from its McCoy 1 well, part of the Nemaha Project in Kansas, USA. The well, drilled to a depth of 5,562 feet, is the deepest HyTerra has completed to date and penetrated both sedimentary rocks and the Precambrian basement. Real-time gas monitoring during swabbing operations revealed dynamic flowing gas shows, confirming the presence of these valuable gases.
Strategic Production Testing Planned
Following these promising results, HyTerra plans to conduct a production test in 2026, aiming to better understand the representative flowing gas composition from the basement formation. This test is scheduled for after the winter season and will involve site preparations, equipment procurement, and zonal isolation to optimize gas recovery. The company’s approach underscores its commitment to advancing natural hydrogen and helium exploration with a focus on commercial viability.
Confirming Geologic Hydrogen and Helium
In addition to McCoy 1, wellhead gas samples from Sue Duroche 3 and Blythe 13-20 wells were independently analyzed, confirming the presence of geologic hydrogen and helium across multiple sites within the Nemaha Project. These findings reinforce the potential of the Precambrian basement as a source of low-carbon hydrogen and helium, which could offer significant advantages over conventional, man-made hydrogen production methods.
Positioning in an Emerging Market
HyTerra is pioneering exploration for “white hydrogen,” naturally generated by the Earth, which promises lower production costs and reduced carbon emissions. The Nemaha Project’s proximity to industrial hubs and existing infrastructure enhances its appeal, with potential off-takers including ammonia manufacturers and petrochemical plants. However, the company acknowledges the inherent geological and development risks typical of this emerging frontier.
Looking Ahead
Executive Director Avon McIntyre expressed optimism about the results and looks forward to further discussions at the upcoming AAPG Midcontinent Conference. As HyTerra moves toward production testing, investors and industry watchers will be keen to see whether these early gas shows translate into commercially viable natural hydrogen and helium supplies.
Bottom Line?
HyTerra’s next steps in production testing will be critical to validating its natural hydrogen and helium potential.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the detailed gas composition reveal during the 2026 production test?
- How will HyTerra mitigate geological and development risks inherent in natural hydrogen projects?
- What commercial partnerships or off-take agreements might emerge following successful testing?
