Judith-2 Environmental Plan Passes NOPSEMA Check, Drilling Targeted Mid-2026

Environmental Plan Progress Marks Key Regulatory Step

Emperor Energy Limited (ASX: EMP) has reached a significant milestone in its Judith-2 gas well project with the Environmental Plan (EP) for drilling now passing the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (NOPSEMA) completeness check. This procedural hurdle confirms that the EP contains all necessary information and is now publicly available for a 30-day consultation period, inviting feedback from stakeholders and the community.

The Judith-2 well is located in the offshore Gippsland Basin, a prolific gas-producing region in Victoria’s Bass Strait. Emperor Energy holds a 100% interest in the Vic/P47 permit, which is strategically positioned near existing infrastructure such as the Orbost Gas Processing Plant and adjacent to fields operated by major players including Exxon, Woodside, and Mitsui. This proximity offers potential operational synergies and cost efficiencies for future development.

Drilling Plans and Strategic Funding Efforts

With the EP now under public review, Emperor Energy is targeting to commence drilling the Judith-2 well from mid-2026. The company is in discussions to engage a Jack-Up drilling rig currently operating in the Gippsland Basin, with initial proposals already received. This next phase will be critical in confirming the commercial viability of the gas resources identified.

To support the drilling and subsequent flow testing, Emperor Energy plans to launch a strategic funding process starting June 2025, partnering with financial adviser Argonaut. This move comes amid growing regulatory and market calls for new domestic gas supplies on Australia’s east coast, where forecast shortfalls are expected from 2028 onwards.

Resource Potential and Project Derisking

The Judith gas field boasts a substantial contingent resource estimate of 198 billion cubic feet (BCF) and a prospective resource of 2.2 trillion cubic feet (TCF), based on probabilistic assessments. These figures are underpinned by historical data from the Judith-1 discovery well drilled in 1989, recent 3D seismic surveys, and advanced seismic interpretation techniques completed as recently as 2023.

Notably, permeability studies and production flow modelling have indicated promising reservoir characteristics, including mobile gas columns and permeabilities comparable to the nearby Longtom Gas Field, which has demonstrated strong production rates. These technical insights help reduce exploration risk and support the case for commercial development.

Regulatory and Market Context

NOPSEMA’s ongoing assessment will rigorously evaluate the Environmental Plan against the latest offshore petroleum and greenhouse gas storage regulations, ensuring environmental risks are managed to acceptable levels. The public consultation phase is a critical component of this process, allowing for transparency and stakeholder engagement before final approval is granted.

Emperor Energy’s progress aligns with broader energy market dynamics, where east coast Australia faces tightening gas supply conditions. The company’s efforts to secure funding and advance drilling could position Judith-2 as a timely contributor to domestic gas supply, supporting energy security and market stability.