D3 Energy Certifies 65% Increase in South African Helium Resources

Substantial Helium Resource Upgrade at ER386

D3 Energy Limited (ASX:D3E) has independently certified a maiden contingent helium resource of 14.0 billion cubic feet (BCF) at its ER386 permit in South Africa’s Free State Province, marking a major expansion of its helium portfolio. This certification by Sproule ERCE adds significant scale to D3’s holdings, bringing the combined 2C recoverable helium resource across ER315, PR016, and ER386 to 35.6 BCF, a 65% increase over the previous standalone figure for ER315 and PR016.

The ER386 permit, which D3 holds 100% interest in, is contiguous with the company’s flagship ER315 permit and lies within the same geological system characterised by helium concentrations up to 8%. This continuity was confirmed through fault mapping along the Virginia and Ventersburg Faults, reinforcing the potential of the region as a substantial helium province.

Prospective Resources Nearly Double Amid Global Supply Risks

Beyond contingent resources, D3 Energy’s prospective helium resource at ER386 was certified at a best estimate (2U) of 25.4 BCF, almost doubling the previous figure for ER315 and PR016 alone. Combined prospective resources across the three permits now stand at 52.5 BCF, underscoring the scale of helium yet to be discovered and developed in the Free State portfolio.

This expansion comes at a pivotal time as the helium market faces tightening global supplies exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which D3’s Managing Director David Casey highlighted as a factor increasing the strategic importance of their Southern Hemisphere assets. The Free State’s helium-rich geology coupled with D3’s growing resource base positions the company to potentially fill supply gaps in the coming years.

Technical Validation and Development Pathway

The resource estimates were prepared under the SPE Petroleum Resources Management System guidelines and verified by Sproule ERCE, a respected global reserves auditor. D3’s evaluation incorporated extended flow and pressure tests on wells near ER386, seismic data, and geological modelling to underpin the resource certification.

While contingent resources are not yet classified as reserves due to pending confirmation of gas composition and commercial flow rates within ER386, D3 has submitted work programs to drill and test exploration wells in 2027. These activities aim to convert contingent resources into reserves and progress the area toward production readiness.

The company’s broader South African portfolio now includes multiple exploration permits and a Production Right Application for ER315 and PR016, with ongoing development efforts supported by recent capital raises. This latest certification builds on D3’s momentum following its A$6.12 million placement to accelerate drilling and exploration activities.

Strategic Position in Global Helium Supply

D3 Energy’s Free State assets represent one of the world’s most significant helium provinces, particularly valuable due to their Southern Hemisphere location and geological quality. The company’s focus on advancing ER315 toward development, alongside expanding exploration at ER386, reflects a strategic approach to capitalising on anticipated supply constraints and growing demand.

Additionally, D3 has diversified its portfolio with permits in Australia’s Arckaringa Basin, broadening its exposure to critical gases beyond South Africa. The company’s technical progress, resource growth, and capital backing collectively enhance its profile as a key player in the global helium market, which remains subject to supply volatility and geopolitical risks as highlighted in recent operational updates including improved well flows at Nooitgedacht Major.