Thor Energy has reported natural hydrogen readings of up to 3% at its HY-Range Natural Hydrogen Project in South Australia, marking a clear step forward for the company’s early-stage exploration strategy.
The result, equal to 30,000 parts per million, came from the Phase-2 soil air geochemistry programme. An adjacent sample returned 1.5%, while several other readings were reported at levels well above normal atmospheric background. The latest work follows the Phase-1 programme, which recorded hydrogen readings of up to 3,000 parts per million.
Thor has now confirmed stronger hydrogen readings across priority areas rather than relying on a single early-stage indication. The company has validated three focus areas at Mallala, Lochiel and Crystal, giving it a clearer basis for the next phase of work.
The Phase-2 programme was also designed to improve confidence in the sampling method. Thor tested sample depth, sample timing and hole-lining materials, while using controls to limit contamination risk. Surface readings need to be reliable before the company commits further capital to subsurface exploration.
The results support Thor’s view that hydrogen may be linked to basement structures, fault systems and possible migration pathways across the project area. These geological features are important because they may help identify where natural hydrogen and helium could accumulate below surface.
Thor is now preparing for a 2D seismic programme across the Lochiel and Crystal areas. This will be a key step because seismic data should help define subsurface structures and support future drill target selection. The company is in the final stages of awarding the seismic contract and has said it is fully funded for the programme.
Thor Energy PLC (LON:THR) is a leading exploration company focused on natural hydrogen and helium, with a significant footprint in the highly prospective South Australian region.
