Alaska Geologist Advocates for Hydrogen as a Clean Energy Source
Key Ideas
- Mark Myers, an experienced geologist and former oil industry professional, believes in the potential of underground hydrogen reserves to fuel a sustainable energy industry in Alaska.
- The discovery of hydrogen in Mali and South Australia has sparked interest in exploring naturally forming hydrogen reservoirs as a carbon-free energy source.
- Despite challenges such as accessibility and potential leakage, efforts are underway to map potential hydrogen reservoirs in the U.S., with a focus on regions like the Great Plains and the Atlantic coastal plain.
- Myers and other experts are advocating for further research and exploration to identify viable hydrogen sources and facilitate the transition to a post-fossil fuel energy landscape.
Alaska geologist Mark Myers envisions a future where underground reserves of hydrogen could drive a new energy industry in the state. Inspired by the discovery of hydrogen deposits in Mali capable of powering a village electric plant, Myers is optimistic about similar reserves existing in Alaska's serpentinite rocks. Concerned about the impact of fossil fuel combustion on climate change, Myers advocates for transitioning towards cleaner energy sources like hydrogen. Federal research is currently focused on green hydrogen production, but the exploration of naturally forming hydrogen reservoirs presents a potentially cheaper alternative. While challenges such as accessibility and depletion exist, experts are mapping areas in the U.S. with high hydrogen potential, with promising prospects in the Great Plains and the Atlantic coastal plain. Myers urges further geological fieldwork and research to pinpoint viable hydrogen sources and facilitate the energy transition. The article highlights ongoing efforts to unlock the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable and carbon-free energy solution.
Topics
Green Hydrogen
Renewable Energy
Clean Energy
Climate Change
Research
Energy Industry
Academic
Oil Industry
Geology
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