Thor Energy PLC has announced exceptionally encouraging geochemical findings from its HY-Range project (RSEL 802) in South Australia. The company’s recent soil gas sampling has revealed natural hydrogen levels that far exceed typical atmospheric background values. In several locations, hydrogen readings surpassed 1,000 parts per million, with one sample reaching an impressive 3,000 parts per million – approximately 6,000 times higher than the usual 0.5 parts per million. In addition, helium levels were observed up to 27 parts per million, well above the standard background level of 5 parts per million. These elevated readings, especially in helium where contamination risks are significantly lower, provide strong evidence of dynamic natural hydrogen and helium generation and migration systems. The data has enabled Thor Energy to identify four key areas within the licence – namely Mallala, Locheil, Crystal, and Mt Lock – as high-grade targets for subsequent exploration. The company’s survey data corresponds closely with mapped geological features, reducing concerns about anthropogenic contamination and bolstering confidence in the natural origins of these gas anomalies. The results are expected to shape the company’s near-term exploration strategy, which will include increased sample density and deeper or extended-duration sampling aimed at refining drilling targets in the most promising zones. In a parallel development, Thor Energy PLC has instituted a management restructure by promoting Andrew Hume, previously the Managing Director, to the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director effective immediately. Mr. Hume’s leadership has been pivotal since his arrival in February 2025, overseeing key transactions such as the acquisition of Go Exploration, the divestment of lower-priority assets, and the securing of three new co-located gas storage licences adjacent to the project area. Meanwhile, Alastair Clayton is set to resume his role as Non-Executive Chairman, a move that aligns with the company’s streamlined focus on its core exploration initiatives in the burgeoning clean energy sector. From a market perspective, the announcement is largely seen as a bullish indicator. The strong technical data reduces exploration risks and offers a clear pathway to targeted drilling that could unlock significant commercial value, reinforcing the appeal of Thor Energy PLC’s focus on hydrogen and helium as clean energy resources. On the other hand, some caution remains regarding the inherent challenges of soil gas analysis, including potential sample bias and anthropogenic contamination. Nonetheless, the company’s rigorous methodology and strategic follow-up plans are likely to mitigate these concerns. Overall, the breakthrough geochemical results coupled with proactive leadership changes position Thor Energy PLC to accelerate its exploration program and further define its promising portfolio, an outcome that is attracting increasing interest among investors and market participants keen on the next phase of clean energy exploration.