Beetaloo Energy’s Carpentaria-5H well has delivered one of the highest gas flow rates in the Beetaloo Basin, showcasing promising long-term productivity and paving the way for pilot gas sales in 2026.
- Carpentaria-5H achieves peak gas flow of 11.2 TJ/day and 30-day average of 7.1 TJ/day
- Advanced flowback methods yield five-fold increase in fracture conductivity
- Independent certifiers estimate 10 PJ of 2C recoverable gas per well
- Second extended flow test planned for Q1 2026 to confirm deliverability
- Carpentaria Gas Plant construction progressing; gas sales expected in H2 2026
Record Flow Rates Signal Strong Well Performance
Beetaloo Energy’s Carpentaria-5H well has emerged as a standout performer in Australia’s largest hydraulic stimulation project, achieving a peak gas flow rate of 11.2 terajoules per day (TJ/day) and maintaining a robust 30-day average of 7.1 TJ/day. This positions Carpentaria-5H as the second-highest producer in the Beetaloo Basin, with a notably low decline rate over the test period, underscoring its potential as a long-term gas producer.
The well’s performance is particularly impressive given it is still undergoing clean-up, a process that removes fracturing fluids to enhance gas flow. Historical data from earlier wells in the Carpentaria series suggest that gas rates typically increase materially once clean-up is complete, hinting at even stronger future output.
Innovative Flowback Techniques Boost Productivity
Beetaloo Energy has implemented a basin-leading flowback strategy involving a restricted choke to extend the clean-up period. This approach has preserved fracture conductivity; essentially the pathways through which gas flows; resulting in a more than five-fold increase compared to previous wells. The company’s reservoir engineering partner, Subsurface Dynamics, reports that Carpentaria-5H exhibits longer fracture half-lengths and higher shale permeability, both indicators of an effective fracture network and improved gas recovery potential.
Independent Resource Certification and Future Testing
Independent certifiers Netherland, Sewell & Associates estimate that each well in the Carpentaria area holds approximately 10 petajoules (PJ) of 2C recoverable gas resources, reinforcing the commercial promise of the project. Beetaloo Energy plans a second extended production test in the first quarter of 2026 to fully assess the well’s deliverability once clean-up is complete, a critical step before scaling up production.
Progress Toward Commercial Gas Sales
On the infrastructure front, construction of the Carpentaria Gas Plant is advancing steadily, with mechanical installation slated for the first half of 2026. The company is refurbishing gas compression facilities in Queensland to support operations. With all regulatory and board approvals secured, Beetaloo Energy aims to commence pilot gas sales into the Northern Territory market in the second half of 2026 under a ten-year agreement with the local government.
Managing Director Alex Underwood expressed optimism about the project’s trajectory, highlighting the disciplined flowback strategy and the potential for enhanced gas recovery. The upcoming year promises to be pivotal as the company transitions from testing to commercial production, potentially reshaping the Northern Territory’s energy landscape.
Bottom Line?
Carpentaria-5H’s strong early results set the stage for Beetaloo Energy’s transition to commercial gas sales, but upcoming flow tests will be crucial to confirm long-term production forecasts.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the second extended flow test impact estimates of ultimate recovery and well economics?
- What operational risks could delay the commissioning of the Carpentaria Gas Plant and gas sales?
- How might improved shale permeability influence the broader development strategy across Beetaloo’s acreage?