Quantum Helium (QHE ) has now substantially completed the detailed engineering and operational planning for the larger-volume, propped fracture stimulation programme that will get underway shortly at the Sagebrush-1 project in Colorado.
The remaining technical and logistical arrangements required ahead of field operations are targeted to commence in November 2026.
The programme is designed to improve reservoir connectivity and establish stronger, more sustainable helium-bearing gas flow rates.
It will access a broader section of the geological structure known as the Leadville Formation, including establishing potential connectivity with the deeper Lower Leadville dolomite.
An initial extended production test confirmed helium-bearing gas at approximately 2.5% helium.
Quantum is working closely with experienced specialist fracture stimulation engineers to complete the final treatment specifications.
In parallel, Quantum is completing arrangements for high-pressure pumping operations, pressure-tested tubing and associated surface equipment to ensure the appropriate resources and equipment are in place for the programme.
"We are making excellent progress towards the next phase of operations at Sagebrush and are now entering the final stages of preparation for what we believe will be a very important operational programme,” said Howard McLaughlin, chief executive of Quantum Helium.
"Extensive engineering work has been undertaken alongside highly experienced fracture stimulation specialists to design a treatment that gives us the best opportunity to establish stronger, sustainable gas flow rates from the Leadville reservoir. We have already confirmed the presence of helium and demonstrated the scale of the reservoir structure. Our focus now is on applying the appropriate engineering solution to improve reservoir connectivity and establish the flow characteristics required to advance Sagebrush towards commercial development.”
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The primary objective is to demonstrate improved, sustainable flow rates from Sagebrush-1, providing the production data required to assess the next stage of commercial helium development. This is a key step for Quantum, which so far has made consistent progress in Colorado over the past year or so.