Feasibility study indicates geothermal potential at Tunu, Greenland
East coast of Greenland (source: Doc Searls from Santa Barbara, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Carlo Cariaga
3 Oct 2025
A study done by Sproule-ERCE indicates a geothermal resource for power generation at Pulsar's Tunu project in Greenland, where hydrogen production is planned.
Pulsar Helium Inc. (Pulsar) has confirmed a promising geothermal reservoir at the company’s Tunu helium-geothermal project in East Greenland based on a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) done by Sproule-ERCE. The assessment identifies a geothermal resource near the town of Ittoqqortoormiit, characterized by estimated reservoir temperatures between 80–130°C (based on geochemical and geophysical evidence) and the presence of conductive faults and fractures.
Pulsar contracted Sproule-ERC, as announced in June 2025, evaluate the existing geothermal opportunities in more detail alongside potential helium extraction at the Tunu site.
Pre-Feasibility Study results
Reservoir modeling shows potential flowrates of up to to ~720 m³ / hour in the best-case scenarios. This supports the production of geothermal power sufficient to supply the entire settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, while also providing surplus capacity for helium separation. Binary cycle and dual-flash geothermal power systems were identified as the most feasible options, with estimated capital expenditures of USD $20–30 million.
The high-case scenario also indicates helium recovery could reach ~350 thousand cubic feet (Mcf) per day, representing one of the most prospective primary helium opportunities in Europe, unassociated with hydrocarbons. The Tunu project is notable for being one of the few primary helium occurrences identified in Europe, with helium concentrations in sampled hot springs reaching up to 0.8%
The study also makes clear that outcomes depend heavily on the size and connectivity of the underground fracture system. If the rock proves less permeable, flow rates, and therefore power and helium volumes, could be lower. To reduce this risk, Sproule-ERCE recommends a focused 2026 program including magneto-telluric surveys, further hot spring sampling, and eventually a slim appraisal well to directly measure reservoir conditions. These steps will allow Pulsar to refine the project design, strengthen confidence for investors and potential partners, and unlock a strategically important source of renewable power and critical helium supply for Europe.
Regional infrastructure
Moreover, the Governments of Greenland and Denmark have announced funding for a new airport at Ittoqqortoormiit, adjacent to the Tunu Project with construction slated to commence in 2026. The airport will provide year-round access and dramatically improve logistics for Pulsar’s future eld programs and potential development.
“The results of this independent Pre-Feasibility study, combined with the announcement of a new airport at Ittoqqortoormiit, highlight the extraordinary potential of the Tunu Project. Tunu is not only one of the very few primary helium prospects in Europe, but also a project that aligns perfectly with Greenland and Europe’s future energy and critical raw material needs,” said Thomas Abraham-James, President & CEO of Pulsar.
“With minimal existing infrastructure in East Greenland, the ability to power our planned helium plant directly from geothermal energy is transformative, delivering clean, baseload electricity to the local community while simultaneously reducing our operational expenses as we develop a pathway towards sustainable helium production. This unique synergy of renewable power and critical resource development positions Pulsar to both support the Greenlandic community with reliable energy and deliver helium to global markets at a time of growing strategic demand. We are excited to advance into the next phase of exploration and unlock the significant opportunities at Tunu.”
Source: Pulsar
