Geologic hydrogen (natural, white, or gold hydrogen) refers to hydrogen deposits formed naturally within the Earth's crust.
Growing Interest:
A significant increase in exploration efforts is underway, driven by the potential for a zero-carbon hydrogen source. Projects are active in numerous countries globally.
Potential Benefits:
● Could offer a large-scale, emissions-free alternative to both fossil fuel-derived (grey) hydrogen and costly green hydrogen. ● Estimated recoverable reserves might satisfy global hydrogen demand for centuries.
Challenges and Uncertainties:
● The volume and accessibility of economically viable deposits are still unproven.
● Large-scale production is unestablished outside of a single project in Mali.
● Extraction methods may present environmental risks.
● Distribution infrastructure would likely require development.
Expert Perspectives:
● Sources acknowledge the transformative potential if extraction challenges are resolved. ● Some urge prioritization of scaling existing green hydrogen technologies while exploring geologic hydrogen.
Conclusion:
Geologic hydrogen represents a promising avenue for clean energy, but significant technological and economic hurdles must be overcome before it can be considered a reliable, large-scale solution. Further research investment and successful pilot projects are required to determine its true potential.
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