Helium One Global Ltd (AIM:HE1) has begun drilling the Tai-2 exploration well at the Rukwa Project in Tanzania.
It comes quickly after the Tai-1 well, which proved a working helium system, encountered helium gas shows but could not be definitively tested due to problem well conditions.
Tai-2 is targeting the same prospects that were identified in the preceding well. The new well is located some 20 metres from Tai-1, using the same drill pad which reduces costs and timelines.
"We are delighted to have started drilling activity at Tai-2, testing shallower targets that were not fully evaluated in Tai-1,” said chief executive David Minchin. "We are excited to continue with our 2021 exploration campaign."
He added: "Having proven a working helium system with Tai-1, Helium One have substantially de-risked the Rukwa basin.”
“Demonstration of seal and reservoir, as well as helium shows at multiple stratigraphic levels, indicates a working system in which free helium gas is waiting to be discovered.”