Hydrogen shaping future of sustainable energy

The Pulse reveals in its fresh article that white hydrogen, a naturally occurring and pure form of hydrogen found deep beneath the Earth’s surface, is emerging as a game-changer in the quest for sustainable energy. 

Researchers have recently discovered "white oil," or white hydrogen, deep within the Earth's surface. As the first known discovery of its kind, this breakthrough could significantly impact the future of renewable energy. Unlike traditional energy sources that require considerable input and still generate carbon emissions, white hydrogen remains naturally stable, making it an ideal sustainable energy option.

Known also as "white" or "gold" hydrogen, natural hydrogen is rapidly gaining attention globally as a potential solution for affordable, low-carbon energy. Data from Rystad Energy shows that the number of companies exploring natural hydrogen resources grew from 10 in 2020 to 40 by the end of last year. Countries such as Australia, the United States, Spain, France, Albania, Colombia, South Korea, and Canada are all currently engaged in research and exploration of this promising resource.

Unlike its more familiar counterparts—green, blue, and grey hydrogen—white hydrogen, also referred to as natural hydrogen, exists in its pure form within subsurface deposits. Traditional hydrogen production methods, such as methane reforming or water splitting, typically result in pollutants and require significant energy consumption. In contrast, white hydrogen is naturally occurring and can be used with minimal processing.

One of the most attractive features of white hydrogen is its cost advantage over other types. While green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy, is currently over three times more expensive than grey hydrogen, which is derived from fossil fuels and costs under $2 per kilogram, white hydrogen offers a more affordable alternative. Although renewable hydrogen prices are expected to decrease as electrolyzer costs drop in the coming years, white hydrogen would still maintain its cost edge. Additionally, it is one of the cleanest energy sources discovered, as its extraction process generates virtually no carbon emissions, and its abundant reserves offer the potential for a long-term, sustainable supply.

The idea that hydrogen could be found underground was once considered unlikely due to its ability to permeate rock layers, despite the first accidental discovery occurring in Mali around 37 years ago. However, advancements in technology have made it possible to detect dissolved hydrogen in rock formations as deep as 1,500 meters below the surface, thanks to hydrogen-sensing gas probes.

These probes are used in deep boreholes to monitor and analyze dissolved gases through spectrometers. Researchers are currently working on developing probes that can reach even greater depths. While small traces of natural hydrogen have been detected in the past, this is the first instance where large, commercially viable quantities have been found. Areas in Africa, the US, and parts of Europe—where geological conditions are favorable for the formation of these deposits—are now attracting the attention of both scientists and energy companies.

This discovery has generated significant interest not only from researchers but also from investors and governments who see it as a potential opportunity to reduce reliance on fossil fuels or imported hydrogen, offering a chance to achieve greater energy independence. White hydrogen holds considerable potential to disrupt traditional energy sources.

Some oil companies, like Repsol in Spain and Total and Engie in France, have made modest moves toward exploring white hydrogen. However, the major players in the sector have shown limited interest so far. That could change, though, as the findings of the first hydrogen explorers may shift the industry's focus. Just as the big oil companies joined early shale gas "wildcatters" in the fracking boom, they could potentially tap into the white hydrogen market if it proves to be as promising as expected. This time, the results could also have positive implications for the climate.

By Naila Huseynova