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Context:
Natural hydrogen, also known as geologic hydrogen, is gaining global attention as a clean, low-cost, and abundant alternative to fossil fuels and industrially produced hydrogen. With vast reserves potentially lying beneath the Earth’s surface including in India this fuel could play a transformative role in the global energy transition.
What is Natural Hydrogen?
- Naturally occurring hydrogen gas is formed underground through geological processes, not manufactured.
- It is a clean energy source that emits no carbon dioxide when used.
- Key production processes:
- Serpentinisation (reaction between water and iron-rich rocks)
- Radiolysis (splitting of water by radioactive rocks)
- Decomposition of organic matter at geological depths
Historical Discovery
- In 1987, a flame erupted unexpectedly from a borehole in Bourakébougou, Mali, revealing a rich source of hydrogen.
- By 2012, analysis showed the gas was 98% pure hydrogen — a turning point for understanding its geologic potential.
- Once considered a curiosity, natural hydrogen is now recognized as a legitimate, large-scale energy resource.
Current Reserves and Potential
- Recent discoveries in France (Moselle and Lorraine) indicate massive deposits — 92 million tonnes, worth ~$92 billion.
- USGS estimates suggest tens of trillions of tonnes may exist globally.
- If just 2% is recoverable, it could meet global hydrogen demand for 200 years.
- Countries with active seeps or exploration: Australia, U.S., France, Spain, Albania, South Korea, Colombia, Canada.
India’s Geological Potential: India is geologically suited for natural hydrogen generation due to:
- Ultramafic and basaltic rock formations
- Ophiolite complexes in Andaman and Himalayas
- Greenstone belts in Dharwar and Singhbhum cratons
- Sedimentary basins (Vindhyan, Cuddapah, Gondwana, Chhattisgarh)
- Fractured basement rocks and hydrothermal systems (e.g., hot springs)
Despite the high potential, exploration in India remains nascent. A structured roadmap for surveying and testing is needed.
Advantages of Natural Hydrogen
- Low cost of extraction (as low as $1/kg or less)
- Zero emissions at point of use
- Doesn’t require electrolysis or fossil fuel reforming
- Energy-dense and potentially more scalable than green hydrogen
Challenges
- Economic viability depends on deposit concentration and accessibility
- Exploration technology and data still evolving
- Scattered distribution could increase costs
- Environmental impact of drilling must be evaluated
