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Helix Exploration PLC on Thursday reported findings from its Rudyard prospect supportive of the site’s ‘long-term potential as both a helium and hydrogen source.’ The London-based helium explorer’s shares jumped 10% to 26.50 pence on Thursday afternoon in London. Rudyard is the company’s flagship venture in the US state of Montana, part of a resource system dubbed the ‘Montana helium fairway’. Rock cuttings from Rudyard confirmed an elevated helium signature, the company said, with modelling suggesting about 9% of the site’s helium originates from the mantle. ‘This deep-earth connection not only replenishes helium within the reservoir but also facilitates the water-rock reactions that generate natural hydrogen at depth,’ Helix Exploration noted. This puts Rudyard among North America’s ‘few verified hydrogen-prone’ systems, according to the firm, which could supply ‘green’ or naturally occurring hydrogen. This is an alternative to ‘grey’ hydrogen, which is produced in a steam methane reforming process that also generates carbon dioxide. The hydrogen resource has not been confirmed at a commercial scale. If it is, Helix Exploration said it could beat the US government’s target of cutting clean hydrogen production costs to $1 per kilogram within a decade. ‘We see this as a milestone not only for Helix but for the entire clean energy sector,’ commented Chief Executive Bo Sears. The company on Monday said it was in ‘advanced’ discussions for off-take arrangements. It expects the first helium at Rudyard shortly after November, with the helium pressure swing absorption plant ready for production. The plant’s mobilisation is due to start this week. Copyright 2025 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
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