So far, hydrogen had to be produced; it was inconceivable to find it in its natural state. It was therefore considered as an “energy carrier” rather than a “resource”.

This certainty is being challenged by the recent discovery, in different parts of the world, of hydrogen in its molecular form. Just as our subsurface contains fossil energies such as coal, gas, and oil, it is now established that it also contains hydrogen in its natural state and potentially in substantial quantities.

While current methods of hydrogen production are polluting and costly methods, the exploitation of natural hydrogen constitutes a real energy revolution: it is not only an innovative mode of production but also clean and economically viable with a cost 6 times lower than for green hydrogen.

Various geological processes could be responsible for a natural production of hydrogen beneath the Earth’s surface (illustration from the article “Hidden Hydrogen” published in the magazine Science). 

Research and exploration work has started in various parts of the world, particularly in Australia, the United States, and France.