Permits approved and contractors secured as H2Au prepares to drill first Kansas hydrogen well
Contracts signed, permits approved, and site construction underway ahead of first well
LONDON, UK (July 30, 2026) – H2Au, a privately-owned natural hydrogen explorer (the “Company”), is pleased to provide an operational update as preparations continue for its first natural hydrogen drilling campaign in Chase County, Kansas.
The Company has signed drilling contracts with Murfin Drilling Company, a fourth-generation, family-owned drilling contractor headquartered in Wichita, Kansas. Operating continuously since 1926, Murfin brings decades of drilling expertise and was also responsible for drilling the natural hydrogen wells for HyTerra.
In addition to securing drilling services, H2Au has contracted all key well service providers, including logging and downhole tool specialists, ensuring the technical support required to execute the upcoming programme safely and efficiently.
A significant regulatory milestone has also been achieved, with all Intent to Drill permits approved by the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC). These approvals clear the way for drilling operations to commence as planned.
Meanwhile, site construction activities are underway at Kohr #1, the first well location in the Company's Kansas natural hydrogen programme. Preparatory work is progressing according to schedule as H2Au moves toward drilling operations.
Greg Niellez, Director of Operations, H2Au said:
As we complete final well preparation and planning, we want to thank our contractors and partners for their professionalism and support. Every well requires careful planning to get right, and the team's work in bringing contractors, vendors, and partners together has set us up for a safe and efficient operation. We're on track to spud the first well within the next ten days, and we're excited to get underway and confident in the results ahead."
Key highlights
Drilling contracts signed with Murfin Drilling Company.
Well services, logging and tool providers contracted and mobilisation-ready.
Intent to Drill permits approved by the Kansas Corporation Commission.
Site construction underway at Kohr #1 in Chase County, Kansas.
First well expected to spud in the coming days.
As H2Au transitions from planning to execution, the Company looks forward to commencing drilling operations and advancing its natural hydrogen exploration programme in Kansas.