Potential for Geologic Hydrogen Gas Resources

Colorado School of Mines

USGS & COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES: EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL OF GEOLOGIC HYDROGEN

In response to the growing need for low-carbon energy sources, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Colorado School of Mines have established a joint industry program to study the potential of geologic hydrogen resources. Supported by several leading industry partners, including BP, Chevron, Fortescue, Petrobras, Koloma, and HyTerra, this program is the first collaborative effort on geologic hydrogen between a federal agency and academia to build a cleaner future.

Exploring Geologic Hydrogen

Beginning research in Fall 2023, this consortium aims to advance an understanding of geologic hydrogen systems, as well as develop surface and subsurface exploration technologies to locate the clean-burning gas beneath the ground. With potentially vast quantities of hydrogen buried in rock formations in the US and around the world, scientists believe that geologic hydrogen can play a key role in meeting our alternative energy needs for the future.

Different H2 in energy transition graph

A geologic “hydrogen system” model that identifies sources, migration pathways and mechanisms, reservoirs, traps and seals

Surface exploration approaches, including remote sensing and surface geochemistry
Subsurface exploration tools, including multiple geophysical tools, advanced signal processing and artificial intelligence tools
3D reactive transport modeling that integrates geology, geochemistry and geophysics
LEARN MORE ABOUT GEOLOGIC HYDROGEN

Integration of disciplines and geophysics

Integration of disciplines and geophysics

Contact Us

Geoffrey Ellis
gsellis@usgs.gov

Mengli Zhang
menglizhang@mines.edu

Yaoguo Li
ygli@mines.edu