Max Power Mining (CSE:MAXX) has planned to launch completions and testing at its Bracken exploration well after independent analysis confirmed multiple prospective natural hydrogen and helium zones.
The Saskatchewan-based explorer engaged GLJ to conduct petrophysical evaluation of the Bracken 16-29-2-16W3M well, located approximately 325km southwest of the company’s Lawson Discovery.
The review identified gas chromatograph and mass spectrometer anomalies for natural hydrogen and helium across multiple geological intervals.
Bracken forms part of Max Power’s 750km2 Grasslands Project, which had never previously been drilled for natural hydrogen or helium. The company drilled the well to 2,600m in March 2026.
GLJ’s analysis identified four priority testing targets spanning from Devonian through Precambrian formations.
The Precambrian basement contact zone recorded hydrogen signatures well above background levels, while the Basal Cambrian Deadwood sandstone showed natural hydrogen and helium anomalies.
Interlake Ordovician and Duperow/Souris River Upper Devonian carbonates also exhibited ‘favourable’ reservoir characteristics, with gas shows supporting natural hydrogen and helium presence.
“We’ve learned much about Bracken, thanks in part to the unique and proprietary knowledge gained from Lawson in recent weeks and months,” Chief Geoscientist Steve Halabura says.
CEO Ran Narayanasamy says the independent validation ‘reinforces confidence in Bracken’s potential’ and ‘strengthens the broader geological model across Saskatchewan’.
“With commercial validation drilling commencing at Lawson and comprehensive completions testing beginning at Bracken, both in July, we are advancing two highly complementary programs designed to define the scale, continuity, and commercial potential of what points to a globally leading natural hydrogen basin,” Narayanasamy notes.
Testing will evaluate each zone sequentially using industry-standard completion methodologies, with gas sampling conducted to determine composition, natural hydrogen and helium concentrations, isotope analysis, and flow potential.
Max Power Mining holds approximately 1.3 million acres of permits across Saskatchewan, covering exploration ground prospective for natural hydrogen accumulations.
The company’s Lawson Discovery represents Canada’s first confirmed subsurface natural hydrogen system.
Write to JC Villarba at Mining.com.au
Images: Max Power Mining
