A comprehensive exploration campaign was undertaken to assess the carbon dioxide storage and geothermal potential in the Darling Basin. The work utilised seismic surveys, drilling, wireline and MWD logging, conventional coring and laboratory analyses. Three wells, Mena Murtee-1, Coona Coona-1 and Coona Coona-2, successfully intersected the target reservoirs within the Upper Devonian sandstone units. Results indicate the Pondie Range Trough has a normal geothermal gradient and the capacity to store around 240 million tonnes of CO₂ over 50 years, supported by extensive regional seals, fair reservoir quality and manageable project risks.

 

The program has substantially improved knowledge of the Darling Basin’s geothermal and storage potential and established a strong platform for future carbon capture and storage (CCS) development. All data acquired will be made publicly available and the next phase will deliver flow test results that are critical for validating CO₂ storage resources.