Whitebark Energy could soon be at the forefront of the clean energy revolution, with independent experts identifying one of the largest hydrogen and helium deposits within its Rickerscote prospect, located in South Australia’s Officer Basin.
Groundbreaking Potential Revealed
Industry-leading consultants from Sproule ERCE have confirmed that Whitebark Energy’s Rickerscote site, within the Alinya project, offers massive potential for hydrogen and helium storage. The area, spanning an impressive 200 to 400 square kilometers, showcases an unprecedented scale that could revolutionize the energy industry. Analysts estimate the site could contain as much as 1.2 billion kilograms of hydrogen and 209 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of helium in prospective U3 resources.
Whitebark Energy director Richard King stated, “The independent estimates validate our strong belief in the world-class potential of the Officer Basin. In our view, it is one of the best places in the world to test for conventional natural hydrogen and helium reservoirs, with the right rocks and the right amount of time for such a system to work.”
Exceptional Geology and Green Energy Implications
The Rickerscote site benefits from unique geological conditions. The seismic data highlights three key sandstone reservoir structures at varying depths—Munaroo at 900m, Mulyawarra at 1250m, and Pindyin at 1450m. These reservoirs are capped by high-quality salt seals, ensuring highly reliable containment of gases.
Additionally, the prospect features a proven base of radioactive granites that have been generating hydrogen and helium for over 700 million years. This natural process is mirrored in other successful projects like Gold Hydrogen’s Ramsay development in Yorke Peninsula and sites in the Amadeus Basin.
The report also emphasizes the rarity and growing importance of both hydrogen and helium. As the clean energy transition accelerates, hydrogen is emerging as a pivotal resource. At the same time, helium prices have surged by nearly 300% since 2021, making it a critical commodity for industries such as medical imaging, electronics, and aerospace.
Broader Opportunities in South Australia’s Officer Basin
The Rickerscote project doesn’t stop with hydrogen and helium. Sproule ERCE’s analysis indicates additional opportunities, including 1.06 trillion cubic feet of gas and 145 million barrels of oil within the Officer Basin. Such findings position Whitebark Energy to potentially become a leading force in both green and traditional energy markets.
Whitebark intends to advance exploration with a soil gas sampling survey later this year. The company currently controls 67% of the project but holds the option to increase its stake to 100%, ensuring full control over this high-potential asset.
Shaping Australia’s Energy Future
Success at Rickerscote could have far-reaching implications for Australia’s energy landscape. With the potential to contribute significantly to both clean energy initiatives and energy security, the project aligns with the nation’s transition toward sustainable solutions.
As demand grows for hydrogen and helium resources globally, Whitebark Energy’s Rickerscote site could play a transformative role, both economically and environmentally. Industry stakeholders and investors will closely watch the project’s developments in the months ahead.
