Natural Hydrogen: A New Opportunity in Clean Energy

Efforts to transition toward a low-carbon future are increasing. Among the solutions, a previously underexplored energy source is gaining prominence: natural hydrogen.

Also referred to as white or gold hydrogen, natural hydrogen is found in the Earth’s subsurface, and therefore carries the potential to be extracted with minimal environmental impact. In 2025, this resource is emerging as a potentially transformative element in the global energy mix. 

What is natural hydrogen?

Natural hydrogen is molecular hydrogen (H₂) that is generated through geological processes such as serpentinization (the reaction of water with ultramafic rocks). Unlike green hydrogen, which is produced via electrolysis using renewable electricity, or blue hydrogen, which is derived from natural gas with carbon capture, natural hydrogen is naturally occurring and can be carbon-free at the source.

Hydrogen market momentum and interest

The past few years have marked a significant turning point for natural hydrogen exploration and development. Major energy and mining corporations, along with numerous startups, are increasingly investing in the exploration and development of natural hydrogen resources, launching pilot projects to evaluate their commercial potential. This surge in interest is being supported by significant technological advancements. Progression in geophysical imaging, drilling techniques, and subsurface modelling, is improving the accuracy and efficiency of identifying hydrogen-rich geological formations. On a global scale, countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Mali are actively pursuing natural hydrogen exploration. Several exploratory wells and geological surveys are currently underway, highlighting a growing international commitment to this emerging energy concept. 

Economic and environmental advantages

Natural hydrogen offers a range of compelling advantages that position it as a promising clean energy source. One of its key benefits is cost efficiency. Modelling by Gemserv indicates that natural hydrogen could be extracted at significantly lower costs compared to other hydrogen production methods. Additionally, it holds strong environmental credentials. When found in high purities, its extraction can result in minimal greenhouse gas emissions, and its combustion produces no carbon emissions, making it highly suitable for sustainable energy applications. Furthermore, natural hydrogen can enhance energy security, enabling countries with domestic reserves to reduce their dependence on imported fossil fuels, thereby strengthening their energy independence and resilience. 

Challenges to overcome 

Despite its significant potential, the development of natural hydrogen faces several key challenges that must be addressed to enable its widespread adoption. One major hurdle is the limited understanding of its global distribution, concentration, and natural replenishment rates. To determine its scalability, extensive geological mapping and further exploration are essential. Additionally, the current hydrogen infrastructure – particularly within the transport and storage  of hydrogen – is underdeveloped and requires substantial investment to support commercial-scale deployment. Another critical barrier is the lack of clear regulatory frameworks. Most regions do not yet have specific guidelines governing the exploration, extraction, and commercialisation of natural hydrogen, creating uncertainty for both investors and developers. 

So, why natural hydrogen?

Natural hydrogen represents a potentially impactful force in the global energy landscape. If ongoing exploration efforts confirm the presence of abundant and economically recoverable reserves, natural hydrogen could complement other forms of low-carbon hydrogen and accelerate the global transition to clean energy. Policymakers, researchers, innovators and industry stakeholders must collaborate to establish robust regulatory frameworks, invest in infrastructure, and support scientific research to fully realise this opportunity. 

As the energy sector continues to evolve, natural hydrogen may well help the progression to a sustainable and diversified energy future. 

• See our recent work in natural hydrogen discovery