Recent discoveries in France, the United States, and other regions indicate that white hydrogen may soon become a significant player in the global clean energy landscape. Unlike other forms of hydrogen, such as blue and green hydrogen, white hydrogen is naturally occurring and produced through geological processes. However, developers face uncertainties regarding the costs and technical challenges associated with accessing these resources.
White hydrogen, also known as natural or geologic hydrogen, emerges when underground water interacts with iron-rich rocks in a process called serpentinization. This hydrogen can seep through porous rocks and cracks, eventually rising to the atmosphere. In certain cases, it becomes trapped beneath low-permeability rocks, allowing it to accumulate. Understanding these natural formations could lead to a new supply of clean hydrogen, which is increasingly in demand.
A study by the U.S. Geological Survey in 2024 estimates that there may be between 1 billion and 10 trillion tonnes of hydrogen in subsurface deposits. As global demand for low-carbon hydrogen is projected to reach 200 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) by 2050—up from just 1 Mtpa today—white hydrogen could provide a viable alternative to costlier forms like green hydrogen. Currently, green hydrogen production costs range from $6 to $12 per kilogram, prompting many companies to explore less sustainable options.
If accessible, white hydrogen could be produced at a significantly lower cost, potentially below $1/kg. The only active project focused on white hydrogen is the Bourakébougou field in Mali, which generates electricity for a small village. Despite limited investment in white hydrogen production due to the lack of understanding about its extraction, interest is slowly growing, with new projects emerging in both France and the United States.
In May 2023, scientists in France discovered white hydrogen deposits while exploring abandoned mines in the Lorraine region. Further exploration in the nearby Moselle area has revealed additional reserves, estimated to contain around 92 million tonnes of hydrogen, valued at approximately $92 billion.
The geological research company Mantle8 has recently secured funding to employ innovative technology that utilizes geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to create 4D images of the Earth’s mantle. This approach aims to locate white hydrogen reservoirs and monitor their hydrogen volumes. Exploratory drilling in southwest France is expected to commence in 2028.
In the United States, researchers at Oklahoma State University have received $25,000 in funding to investigate potential white hydrogen reserves in the state. Led by professor Prem Bikkina, the research team will survey various areas for natural hydrogen deposits until July 2026. Bikkina noted that Oklahoma is “exceptionally well positioned to emerge as a leader in natural hydrogen development” due to its existing infrastructure and subsurface potential.
Eric Gaucher, a French geochemist and co-leader of an expert group on white hydrogen at the International Energy Agency, expressed optimism about the future of natural hydrogen. He stated, “The hope is to make a big discovery in the next three or four years. My dream is that this natural hydrogen can play a role, maybe as oil played in the past.” However, Gaucher cautioned against overestimating the immediate impact of natural hydrogen in the global green transition, given the ongoing uncertainties about its recoverability.
While the potential for white hydrogen as an alternative and cost-effective clean energy source is promising, significant challenges remain. Researchers must address critical questions about the formation and accessibility of these natural resources. Continued exploration and investment are essential to unlock the full potential of white hydrogen in meeting the rising global energy demands.
