In the pursuit of cleaner energy sources to decarbonize economies and reduce carbon footprints, a recent scientific breakthrough has raised both intrigue and concern. A group of scientists has inadvertently stumbled upon a new type of hydrogen, but contrary to expectations, it’s not a cause for celebration. In fact, it’s being labeled as the dirtiest energy on the planet.
Hydrogen has long been heralded as a potential clean and renewable energy source, with efforts to produce it ranging from traditional methods reliant on fossil fuels, dubbed “grey hydrogen,” to the more sustainable “green hydrogen” generated using renewable electricity. However, a new player has entered the scene: “white hydrogen,” which has experts on edge due to its accidental discovery and murky implications.
White hydrogen, found naturally underground, has garnered attention for its purported abundance and cost-effectiveness. Yet, despite its promise, doubts linger about its extraction process and environmental impact.
The serendipitous unveiling of white hydrogen occurred in 2021 when researchers in Utah drilling for natural gas unexpectedly struck pockets of nearly pure hydrogen gas at depths exceeding 8,000 feet. Unlike artificially produced hydrogen, this discovery was entirely natural, occurring deep underground in concentrations of up to 98%, a rarity in conventional natural gas deposits.
Named after the white drilling mud that accompanied its discovery, white hydrogen has since sparked renewed interest and research into its potential as a transformative energy source. However, its viability at scale remains uncertain, requiring further investigation and validation.
Production of white hydrogen involves a process known as methane pyrolysis, wherein natural gas, predominantly methane, is heated to extreme temperatures without oxygen. This process breaks down methane into hydrogen and solid carbon, with no carbon dioxide emissions produced. The resulting hydrogen gas can be harnessed for energy applications, while the solid carbon byproduct finds use in various industrial applications.
While white hydrogen offers a seemingly carbon-neutral alternative to traditional gray hydrogen, its widespread adoption hinges on addressing technical challenges and environmental concerns. As scientists continue to explore the potential of white hydrogen alongside other renewable energy sources like photovoltaics and wind power, the quest for the ideal energy solution persists.
With various hues of hydrogen being explored, including orange, pink, and purple, the journey towards sustainable energy remains a dynamic and evolving endeavor. For now, focus remains on leveraging established green and blue hydrogen technologies while cautiously navigating the landscape of emerging energy alternatives.