Pulsar Helium’s Tunu Project shows strong geothermal and helium potential, enabling renewable energy supply and critical gas production in Greenland.
Pulsar Helium Inc., a prominent developer of helium-focused projects, has announced the results of an independent Pre-Feasibility Study (“PFS”) conducted by Sproule-ERCE, highlighting significant potential for geothermal energy and helium production at its Tunu project in East Greenland. While existing data remain limited and cannot yet confirm full feasibility, the assessment identifies a promising geothermal resource near the settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit. Estimated reservoir temperatures range between 80–130°C, with conductive faults and fractures serving as primary pathways for fluid movement. The study presents dual development scenarios that could simultaneously provide renewable power to the local community and support commercial helium extraction, underscoring Tunu’s potential as both a clean energy and industrial gas project.
Key findings from the PFS indicate the presence of an active geothermal system beneath Liverpool Land, confirmed through geochemical and geophysical evidence pointing to subsurface temperatures suitable for energy production. Reservoir modeling suggests that flow rates could reach approximately 720 cubic meters per hour under optimal conditions. This would allow for sufficient geothermal power to supply the entire Ittoqqortoormiit settlement while generating surplus energy for helium separation processes. Helium recovery in high-case scenarios could achieve around 350,000 cubic feet per day, positioning Tunu as one of the most promising primary helium opportunities in Europe, independent of hydrocarbons.
The study identifies binary cycle and dual-flash geothermal systems as the most viable options, with estimated capital expenditures of USD $20–30 million, offering a realistic pathway to integrated helium and renewable energy production. Additionally, planned infrastructure developments—including a new airport in Ittoqqortoormiit, funded by the Greenlandic and Danish governments and set to begin construction in 2026—will provide year-round access to the project site. This is expected to enhance logistical efficiency for Pulsar’s exploration and potential development activities.
Thomas Abraham-James, Pulsar’s President & CEO, emphasized the transformative nature of Tunu, stating that the project not only represents a rare primary helium resource in Europe but also aligns with Greenland and Europe’s long-term energy and critical materials objectives. He highlighted that geothermal-powered helium production could decarbonize local electricity supply, reduce operational costs, and simultaneously provide a critical resource to global markets.
The PFS recommends further studies to confirm reservoir conditions, including magneto-telluric surveys, additional hot spring sampling, and a slim appraisal well. Over the past 18 months, Pulsar has advanced Tunu from a conceptual target to a defined project, supported by multiple independent datasets, including passive seismic surveys and geochemical analyses. High helium concentrations of up to 0.8% in hot springs, coupled with identified low-velocity subsurface anomalies, indicate fractured reservoirs capable of channeling helium-rich fluids.
Pulsar holds exclusive Mineral Exploration Licence 2025/101 for the Tunu project, providing a long-term foundation for development over an initial five-year term extendable to 22 years. This unique combination of renewable energy potential, helium resources, and improving regional infrastructure positions Tunu as a strategically important project for both Greenland and European energy and industrial gas markets.
