Quantum Helium (QHE) has commenced its major fracture stimulation programme at the Sagebrush-1 well in Colorado, USA, where it holds a 90% working interest.
Following the mobilisation update on 5 November 2026, specialist contractors, equipment and personnel have been deployed to site, with stimulation and associated well operations now underway.
The larger-scale programme aims to improve connectivity within the helium-bearing Leadville Formation to achieve stronger, more sustainable gas flow rates and advance the assessment of Sagebrush-1's commercial production potential.
The treatment incorporates a nitrogen-assisted gelled foam system and proppant, designed to create and maintain conductive pathways within the reservoir, supporting subsequent well clean-up and flow testing.
Previous testing at Sagebrush-1 demonstrated helium concentrations of about 2.5%, while historical drill stem testing recorded 2.76% helium.
The commencement of operations follows several months of technical evaluation, engineering design and preparation.
Quantum Helium's Chief Executive Officer Howard McLaughlin said: "We are extremely excited to have commenced this important programme at Sagebrush-1. Following months of extensive technical work, detailed engineering and preparation, it is tremendously encouraging to see operations now underway on site.
"This represents a major step forward for Quantum. We have demonstrated the presence of helium within the Leadville Formation, and our focus is now firmly on unlocking stronger, more sustainable flow rates through this carefully designed stimulation programme.
"With helium recently designated a critical material by the US Government, and the increasing importance of securing domestic supply, the timing of this programme is particularly exciting.
"Our team is fully focused on delivering this important phase of operations, and we look forward to updating shareholders as the programme progresses."
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The commencement of the larger-scale stimulation programme marks an important step towards establishing the commercial potential of Sagebrush-1. With helium concentrations already demonstrated, the focus now shifts to achieving sustainable flow rates, which will be critical to assessing the project's development potential. The programme also comes amid growing US interest in securing domestic supplies of helium, a strategically important industrial gas.