A once-overlooked natural resource is quietly drawing serious attention as countries seek alternatives to fossil fuels. With global interest accelerating and dozens of exploration projects ramping up, geologic hydrogen is fast emerging as a potential linchpin in the clean energy revolution.
Geologic hydrogen, also known as white, natural or gold hydrogen, is rapidly gaining traction as a promising clean energy source. Found in its pure molecular form beneath the Earth’s surface, this type of hydrogen is believed to result from high-temperature chemical reactions between water and iron-rich minerals deep underground.
While hydrogen has long been recognised as a contender in the race to decarbonise global energy systems, the vast majority of hydrogen production still relies on fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, leading to significant carbon emissions. Green hydrogen, produced via electrolysis powered by renewable electricity, offers a cleaner alternative but has faced slow adoption due to high production costs and complex market conditions.
Geologic hydrogen is now emerging as a compelling third path. Unlike conventional methods, it requires no carbon-intensive processes and may be naturally abundant and economically viable. Countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, France, Spain, Colombia and South Korea are all actively exploring for this resource.
The surge in interest is clear. According to energy consultancy Rystad Energy, the number of companies actively searching for geologic hydrogen rose from just 10 in 2020 to 40 by the end of 2023. The firm describes this growing interest as a “white gold rush,” driven by the potential for geologic hydrogen to play a transformative role in the global transition to cleaner energy systems.
Minh Khoi Le, Rystad’s head of hydrogen research, highlighted how geologic hydrogen straddles the line between novelty and rediscovery. Early discoveries were made years ago, but systematic exploration had never followed. That’s changing rapidly, as investors and governments begin to view natural hydrogen as a serious commercial opportunity.
Geologic hydrogen, a naturally occurring and potentially abundant form of clean energy, is gaining global momentum as a low-emission alternative to traditional hydrogen production. With exploration underway across multiple continents, the sector is positioning itself as a future cornerstone of the energy transition.
Thor Energy PLC (LON:THR) is a leading exploration company focused on natural hydrogen and helium, with a significant footprint in the highly prospective South Australian region.
