MAX Power Mining Corp. (CSE: MAXX; OTC: MAXXF; Frankfurt: 89N) reported progress in drilling at its Lawson 2 well in Saskatchewan, the first well in a planned multi-well commercial validation program at what the company describes as Canada’s first confirmed subsurface natural hydrogen system.

The company said drilling at Lawson 2 has advanced to a measured depth of 2,370 meters. Operations paused at that depth ahead of a second coring phase after the well encountered a natural hydrogen-rich fracture zone within the basement complex.

According to management, hydrogen readings at Lawson 2 have been stronger and more continuous than those recorded at the original Lawson discovery well. MAX Power also said helium spikes and geological observations observed during the program continue to support its exploration model.

The company said the validation program is intended to assess whether the Lawson discovery can demonstrate the flow, concentration and reservoir characteristics needed for potential commercial development. Those factors are central to evaluating natural hydrogen prospects because subsurface hydrogen occurrences must be tested not only for presence, but also for whether they can be produced consistently and measured under reservoir conditions. After drilling and casing are completed, planned completion testing will evaluate key performance metrics. Independent engineering firm GLJ Ltd. is expected to review the results.

MAX Power said its Lawson project and adjoining Aurora project give the company control of 1,852 square kilometers along Saskatchewan’s Genesis Trend, an area it believes is highly prospective for multiple natural hydrogen systems.

The Lawson Discovery, located near Central Butte, Saskatchewan, represents Canada’s first subsurface natural hydrogen system confirmed through deep drilling, with data validated by three independent laboratories, according to the company. Natural hydrogen exploration remains an early-stage sector compared with conventional oil and gas or mined critical minerals, making independent validation, coring, completion testing and engineering review important parts of establishing whether a discovery can advance beyond exploration.

MAX Power said it has assembled district-scale land positions across Saskatchewan totaling approximately 1.3 million acres, or 521,000 hectares, of permits covering exploration ground it considers prospective for large-volume accumulations of natural hydrogen.

In addition to its natural hydrogen assets, MAX Power holds a portfolio of critical minerals properties in the United States and Canada. The portfolio includes the Willcox Playa Lithium Project in southeast Arizona, where the company reported a 2024 diamond drilling discovery. The project is 100% owned by MAX Power’s U.S. subsidiary.

The company said it is committed to responsible exploration and development practices focused on environmental stewardship, meaningful community engagement and strong corporate governance.

MAX Power’s full press release is available at