Helix Exploration PLC (LSE:HEX) has highlighted the significance of the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to designate helium as a critical material under the Energy Act of 2020, citing the relevance of the classification to its production and processing operations in the United States.
The designation, announced on 23 October 2026, formally recognises helium’s role in semiconductor manufacturing, advanced technologies and national security, as well as the importance of maintaining reliable domestic supply chains.
Helix, which operates helium production facilities in Montana and owns processing and liquefaction infrastructure in Oklahoma, said the decision aligns with its strategy to expand domestic helium production and processing capacity.
DOE Recognises Helium’s Role in US Supply Chains
The DOE’s designation reflects the use of helium in semiconductor manufacturing and other advanced technologies, alongside concerns about global supply availability and domestic supply chain resilience.
The department identified domestic helium resources as an important component of US supply security but acknowledged that limited refining capacity and lengthy permitting processes continue to restrict production.
Helix said the federal decision provides additional recognition of the importance of investment in US helium production, processing and liquefaction infrastructure.
The company is developing operations across multiple stages of the helium supply chain, from exploration and extraction to processing and liquefaction.
Rudyard Production and Oklahoma Liquefaction Infrastructure
Helix began helium production at its Rudyard Project in Montana in February 2026, followed by its first commercial sales in July. According to the company, Rudyard represents the first helium production operation in Montana.
The company is progressing a programme to increase production and processing capacity at the site, using its existing infrastructure and company-owned drilling rig.
In July 2026, Helix acquired the Keyes Helium Complex in Oklahoma, gaining ownership of one of six operational helium liquefaction facilities in the United States.
Liquefaction allows helium to be stored and transported more efficiently for delivery to customers in industrial, medical and advanced technology markets.
Helix said its combination of production assets, drilling equipment and downstream processing infrastructure provides opportunities to expand output and undertake third-party processing and liquefaction activities.
The company believes the DOE’s designation supports its longer-term investment strategy, although the announcement did not include changes to production targets, financial guidance or planned capital expenditure.
Helix Outlines Plans for Further Capacity Expansion
Helix intends to continue expanding its production and processing operations at Rudyard while developing its integrated helium business through the Keyes facility.
The company said its existing infrastructure provides a foundation for increasing domestic helium supply and participating in different stages of the US supply chain.
Bo Sears, Chief Executive Officer of Helix Exploration, said the federal designation recognises the importance of domestic helium resources and the infrastructure needed to supply industrial and technology markets.
Management also highlighted the company’s transition from exploration to commercial production since its initial public offering and the addition of liquefaction capacity through the Keyes acquisition.
Helix said it remains focused on increasing production capacity and developing its position as an integrated helium supplier serving US and international customers.
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