Gold Hydrogen Ltd (ASX:GHY) has significantly expanded its exploration footprint in South Australia with a new petroleum licence application, PELA 792, adding approximately 1,900 square kilometres and bringing the total gas-related surface area to 77,292 square kilometres.
The licence application, divided into three distinct areas, includes an eastern portion adjacent to PELA 688, held by subsidiary Byrock Resources Pty Ltd, and two western sections on the Eyre Peninsula.
These western areas are close to the South Australian Government’s planned hydrogen power facilities in Whyalla and Port Bonython, led by the Office of Hydrogen Power SA.
Gold Hydrogen now intends to progress Native Title arrangements to move PELA 792 towards granted tenure status.
Whyalla Hydrogen Power Plant facility
As GHY expands its footprint, the South Australian Government is investing more than A$500 million in its Hydrogen Jobs Plan, which includes building a state-of-the-art hydrogen power plant, electrolyser and storage facility near Whyalla, slated to begin operations by early 2026.
This 200-megawatt (MW) facility will harness excess renewable energy from wind and solar sources to strengthen grid stability for local residences and businesses.
Port Bonython Hydrogen Hub
Meanwhile, in partnership with the private sector, the South Australian Government is establishing the Port Bonython Hydrogen Hub, a multi-user renewable hydrogen production site intended to serve export and domestic markets.
Located in the Upper Spencer Gulf, Port Bonython boasts a deep-water liquid hydrocarbon export terminal and more than 2,000 hectares of developable land, positioning South Australia to capitalise on its renewable energy resources for hydrogen production and export.
Where does Gold Hydrogen fit in?
Gold Hydrogen is dedicated to exploring and developing natural hydrogen and helium resources within an extensive region in South Australia. The company recently confirmed the presence of these gases through its first drilling campaign.
The demand for hydrogen and helium, driven by both domestic and global markets, coupled with advancements in exploration technology and skilled personnel, positions Gold Hydrogen to potentially establish a new gas province in the area.
Gold Hydrogen’s exploration assets span approximately 77,292 square kilometres, comprising one active exploration licence (Ramsay Project - PEL 687) and one pending licence.
Its subsidiaries, White Hydrogen Australia and Byrock Resources, hold seven further exploration licence applications within South Australia for natural hydrogen and helium.
Additionally, Gold Hydrogen is the preferred applicant for four gas storage exploration licences covering 8,107 square kilometres in the Yorke Peninsula section of PEL 687.
The group’s permitted areas are noted for low population densities, supportive stakeholders and environmental characteristics favourable for resource exploration.
Gold Hydrogen maintains active engagement with local landholders, traditional owners and other relevant parties, which facilitated the acquisition of its primary tenement, PEL 687. The company is committed to continuing these collaborative efforts as exploration progresses.