INTELLIGENT ENGINEERING
White Hydrogen: The Next Gold Rush in Clean Energy?
White hydrogen, also known as natural or geological hydrogen, has garnered significant attention in recent years. Dubbed by some as "gold hydrogen," this naturally occurring gas holds promise for a sustainable energy future. Unlike green or blue hydrogen, white hydrogen is found naturally within the Earth's crust, presenting a potentially limitless and renewable energy source.
Geological Formation and Sources
White hydrogen forms through natural geological processes such as serpentinisation, radiolysis, and hydrothermal activities. Serpentinisation is a chemical reaction between water and iron-rich minerals like olivine at high temperatures and pressures, generating significant hydrogen volumes. Radiolysis involves the dissociation of water molecules due to natural radioactivity. Significant deposits have been discovered in Mali, the USA, Brazil, Australia, France, and Spain.
Extraction Technologies and Methods
The extraction of white hydrogen leverages adapted Oil & Gas Exploration and Production (E&P) technologies. Key methods include seismic imaging for identifying hydrogen chimneys and local accumulations, polymer casing to prevent hydrogen embrittlement in wells, and advanced sensors for detection and ensuring safety during extraction.
Significant innovations are being driven by projects such as those funded by ARPA-E in the USA, focusing on reservoir management and stimulation techniques to enhance extraction efficiency. For instance, the Colorado School of Mines and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory are among the institutions receiving substantial funding to advance these technologies. ARPA-E has announced $20 million in funding for 16 projects across eight states to accelerate natural hydrogen generation and improve extraction methods.
Economic Viability
White hydrogen offers a cost-effective alternative to other hydrogen forms. Production costs are estimated to be between $0.50 to $1 per kilogram, significantly lower than green hydrogen, which can cost around $5 per kilogram. The natural occurrence of white hydrogen reduces the need for energy-intensive production processes, resulting in lower operational expenses.
The market for white hydrogen is rapidly emerging, supported by substantial investments and growing interest from key players. For example, a $245 million clean hydrogen bid in Indonesia by Koloma highlights the financial backing this sector is attracting. Companies like Hethos are at the forefront, driving technological advancements and market integration efforts.
Environmental Impact
White hydrogen stands out for its minimal environmental footprint. The natural formation process involves no carbon emissions, making it an environmentally friendly energy source. Life cycle analyses demonstrate its potential as a clean and sustainable energy solution.
The regulatory landscape is evolving to support the adoption of white hydrogen. Government initiatives such as the US Hydrogen Production Tax Credit and the EU's Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) are instrumental in promoting low-emission hydrogen production.
Current Studies and Reports
Recent studies underscore the viability and potential of white hydrogen. ARPA-E funded projects, for instance, are focusing on low-emission hydrogen production and extraction technologies. International research is also exploring geological hydrogen behaviour and potential applications.
Workshops and conferences have highlighted advancements in white hydrogen technology. National laboratories and industry groups regularly convene to discuss ongoing research and development. Upcoming events are expected to explore white hydrogen's potential further and address its challenges.
"Greenstones as a source of hydrogen in cratonic sedimentary basins" by Hutchinson et al. This study presents a model for generating natural hydrogen from cratonic basement rocks and its migration into overlying cratonic basins. It offers a comprehensive framework for hydrogen exploration, inspired by the hydrogen discovery at Bourakebougou in Mali.
"Natural Hydrogen: Sources, Systems and Exploration Plays" by Jackson et al., published by Geoenergy. This paper arose from a Geological Society Conference in 2023 and was supported by Natural Hydrogen Consultants Limited (NHSG). It provides an in-depth analysis of natural hydrogen generation, migration, and trapping, with exploration models for various geological settings.
Future Prospects and Challenges
Despite its promise, white hydrogen faces several challenges. Research is needed to improve extraction techniques and understand subsurface hydrogen behaviour. Infrastructure development, including pipelines and storage facilities, is crucial for market integration. Economic incentives and policy support will also play a vital role in encouraging adoption.
White hydrogen's long-term prospects are promising. As the energy industry seeks sustainable alternatives, white hydrogen emerges as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. Continued research, investment, and collaboration between industry, academia, and government are essential to realise its full potential.
How EP can support your hydrogen projects
EPConsult Energies (EP) brings over 20 years of expertise in the energy sector, providing tailored consultancy services to support your hydrogen projects. Our comprehensive approach includes:
- Technical Feasibility Studies: Assessing the viability of hydrogen extraction and production projects, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
- Opportunity and Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating potential risks associated with hydrogen projects, leveraging our extensive experience in the oil, gas, and renewable sectors.
- Conceptual Engineering: Developing innovative engineering solutions to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of hydrogen production and extraction processes.
- Project Management: Overseeing the implementation of hydrogen projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.
Sources
EPConsult Energies | INTELLIGENT ENGINEERING
More insights:
Hydrogen Challenges and Solutions
Hydrogen, with a history intertwined with the energy sector for over two centuries, is witnessing a remarkable resurgence, particularly as a renewable energy source in the UK's transition from fossil fuels. As the momentum around hydrogen energy grows, so does the question of its safety. While all fuels inherently pose some risks, hydrogen's unique properties, such as a wide range of flammable concentrations and lower ignition energy, necessitate additional engineering controls and careful material selection.
UK's Electric Vehicle Revolution
In a landmark decision that marked the beginning of the UK's Electric Vehicle (EV) Revolution, the UK government announced in November 2020 the cessation of sales of petrol and diesel-fueled vehicles by 2030, and hybrid vehicles by 2035. This unprecedented shift, aimed at significantly reducing the country's carbon footprint, has set the stage for a monumental transition in the transport sector, which accounted for 24% of the UK's total emissions in 2020.
Blowing Away the Carbon
There are several technical and economic reasons that offshore wind power is a viable option for decarbonizing traditional oil and gas production. Firstly, new offshore wind license areas are often located in deeper waters and at greater distances from the coast. Once land is reached, these sites are still far from potential markets. These logistical factors drive up the cost of delivering power to onshore users.
Common Myths About Solar Energy
The myths and misconceptions surrounding solar energy often need to be updated or stem from a lack of understanding of the technology. Solar energy remains efficient in less-than-ideal weather conditions, and while initial costs can be high, the long-term financial benefits are substantial. Furthermore, although the manufacturing process of solar panels does have an environmental impact, the overall effect is far less damaging than traditional energy sources.
From Coal Mines to Clean Energy
The commitment to net zero has impacted all sectors, promoting the need for low-carbon technologies. Around the UK, a vast number of decommissioned facilities are standing disused in previous industrial hubs, and this will only become more common over the coming years as more and more carbon-polluting facilities are closed. More recently, there has been research and investment on how these sites could be used to develop renewable energy sites.
Riding The Waves of Energy
The ocean is a vast playground of untapped energy. Waves, created by the wind's interaction with the water's surface, hold immense potential. Wave energy, also known as ocean wave power, aims to capture this power and convert it into usable electricity. It's like harnessing the ocean's natural heartbeat to power our world. The energy held within the world's waves is the most significant unused power source on the planet, with the total energy potential globally believed to reach a staggering 30,000 TWh per year. To put this into perspective, that's tenfold the European Union's total annual electricity usage.
- Log in to post comments