Vast Underground Hydrogen Reserves Could Transform Global Energy Landscape
A new study suggests Earth's geologic hydrogen reserves may hold the potential to replace fossil fuels, but challenges in extraction and infrastructure remain significant.
- Researchers estimate Earth's geologic hydrogen reserves could contain trillions of tonnes of hydrogen, potentially replacing fossil fuels for up to 200 years if economically viable extraction methods are developed.
- The study, published in *Science Advances*, highlights that just 2% of these reserves could meet global hydrogen demand for nearly two centuries, with demand projected to grow fivefold by 2050.
- Geologic hydrogen, formed through natural processes, is considered a cleaner alternative to hydrogen derived from fossil fuels or electrolysis, which have higher carbon footprints.
- Despite its promise, the exact locations of these hydrogen reservoirs remain largely unknown, and significant investments in extraction technologies and infrastructure would be required.
- Experts remain divided on whether focusing on geologic hydrogen is the best path forward, given the availability of established renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
NDTV 
New Scientist 