New US Geological Survey Map Reveals Potential Hydrogen Reserves

A groundbreaking map released by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) highlights significant reserves of "geologic hydrogen" across various locations in the United States, challenging the longstanding notion that naturally occurring hydrogen is rare. The map indicates that several states might contain substantial underground hydrogen resources that could serve as a clean energy alternative.

Previously, experts doubted the availability of enough natural hydrogen to be a viable energy source. However, USGS researchers have concluded that up to 6.2 trillion tons of recoverable hydrogen may exist beneath the Earth's surface, enough to sustainably fuel the world for 200 years if only a fraction were tapped. The energy content in this recoverable hydrogen is estimated to be double that of all proven natural gas reserves combined.

Using a new methodology tailored to assess suitable conditions for hydrogen accumulation, researchers identified regions likely to harbor hydrogen. States flagged for their potential include Kansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan, areas in the Four Corners region, the California coast, and parts along the Eastern Seaboard.

Despite the encouraging findings, experts stress that this assessment is the beginning of understanding the extraction potential of hydrogen. The USGS plans to update the map as further investigations are conducted, aiming to position hydrogen as a significant part of future energy supplies, potentially accounting for 30% in some sectors by 2050.