ADX Energy’s HOCH-1 exploration well in Upper Austria delivered a promising clean-up flow of 2.8 million cubic feet per day from its first tested gas zone, signalling encouraging reservoir potential ahead of further testing.
- HOCH-1 well flowed 2.8 million cubic feet per day from first perforated zone
- Up to eight gas reservoirs identified within Hall and Base Hall formations
- Production testing underway in two phases targeting multiple gas zones
- Pressure build-up tests planned to estimate reserves potential
- ADX holds 50% interest and operates ADX-AT-I licence in Upper Austria
Strong Initial Gas Flow from First Tested Zone
ADX Energy Ltd (ASX:ADX) has reported a successful clean-up flow test from the first perforated gas zone (Zone 1) in its HOCH-1 shallow gas exploration well in Upper Austria. The tested interval, a Basin Floor Fan (BFF) reservoir at 1465 metres depth, flowed at an average rate of 2.8 million cubic feet per day (467 barrels of oil equivalent per day) on a small 16/64 inch choke, with wellhead pressure rising to 940 psi. The water-free flow and increasing pressure indicate strong reservoir inflow performance.
Multiple Gas Reservoirs Identified Across Formations
The HOCH-1 well, completed on 15 May 2026 within the ADX-AT-I exploration licence, encountered up to eight separate gas reservoirs across the Hall and Base Hall formations. Production testing is being conducted in two phases: the first targeting the upper Hall formation with up to three confirmed zones and a potential fourth contingent zone, while the second phase will focus on the lower Base Hall formation. Sand intervals are being perforated sequentially, with flow periods adjusted based on each zone’s performance.
Pressure Build-Up Testing to Define Reserves Potential
Following the clean-up flow, ADX plans to run downhole pressure gauges and maintain stable flow rates from Zone 1 for approximately 14 hours before shutting in the well to record pressure build-up over about two weeks. This data will help define the reservoir’s extent and connected volume, providing a preliminary estimate of reserves potential for this gas interval ahead of testing additional zones. The well’s performance to date supports optimism about the prospect’s commercial viability.
ADX’s Strategic Position and Exploration Program
ADX holds a 50% economic interest and operates the ADX-AT-I licence, with HOCH-1 being the first of three shallow gas prospects planned for drilling in Upper Austria during 2026. Two more prospects are permitted for drilling later this year, expanding the company’s exploration footprint in the region. The ongoing testing and appraisal of HOCH-1 will be critical in shaping ADX’s production forecasts and resource valuation moving forward.
The company has committed to providing further updates as the testing program progresses and additional data becomes available, keeping investors informed on this potentially transformative asset.
Bottom Line?
The encouraging flow rates from HOCH-1’s first tested zone mark a key step, but reserve estimates hinge on upcoming pressure data and further zone tests.
Questions in the middle?
- How will pressure build-up results refine estimates of HOCH-1’s gas reserves?
- What impact will subsequent zone testing have on overall production potential?
- How might drilling of the two additional permitted prospects influence ADX’s regional portfolio?