Scientists in France have made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the world’s energy resources. While conducting research for fossil fuels in northeastern France, scientists Jacques Pironon and Phillipe De Donato stumbled upon a significant deposit of white hydrogen, which may be the largest ever found. This discovery could potentially contain between 6 million and 250 million metric tons of hydrogen, with a concentration 20% higher than expected at a depth of 1,250 meters underground.
White hydrogen, unlike other forms of hydrogen, is naturally produced in the Earth’s crust and is considered a clean energy source. When burned, it only produces water, making it an exceptionally clean and sustainable energy option. This form of hydrogen is named “white” because its production does not generate greenhouse gases.
The implications of this discovery are vast, as white hydrogen can be used as a cleaner alternative in various applications, such as fuel cells for vehicles or industrial processes. Until now, scientists believed that large-scale production of white hydrogen could only be achieved in a laboratory setting, with other forms of hydrogen, such as green hydrogen and gray hydrogen, produced through electrolysis. However, the newfound deposit in France could provide a cheaper and more accessible source of this clean energy.
Geoffrey Ellis, a geochemist with the US Geological Survey, expressed his surprise at the discovery, stating that just a few years ago, he would have denied the existence of natural hydrogen. Geochemist Viacheslav Zgonnik emphasized the potential of white hydrogen in combating the climate crisis.
White hydrogen deposits have also been found in countries like Russia, Oman, Mali, and others. Experts estimate that globally, there could be tens of billions of tons of white hydrogen available. Several start-ups are already looking into commercializing this resource, although it may take around 200 years for full development.
However, there are some challenges that need to be addressed before white hydrogen can become widely available. Regulatory barriers and production costs are significant obstacles, with the estimated production cost of white hydrogen currently around $1 per kilogram, compared to $6 per kilogram for green hydrogen.
Overall, the discovery of this major white hydrogen deposit in France has the potential to transform the world’s energy landscape. With its clean and abundant nature, white hydrogen could play a crucial role in transitioning to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
