Unearthing the Potential: USGS Reveals Massive Subterranean Hydrogen Reserves Across the U.S.
Key Ideas
  • USGS unveils a groundbreaking study and map showcasing extensive natural hydrogen deposits hidden underground in the U.S.
  • The Earth's estimated buried hydrogen reserves of 6.2 trillion tons could potentially power the globe for 200 years with just 2% of it.
  • The discovery opens up possibilities for hydrogen-fueled technologies, benefiting industries like transportation and off-road vehicles.
  • While the commercial extraction feasibility remains uncertain, the findings hint at a promising future for hydrogen as a zero-carbon energy source.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has recently revealed a groundbreaking study and map that highlight the presence of massive subterranean hydrogen reserves across the U.S. Contrary to past skepticism about the practicality of hydrogen fuel, the study estimates that the Earth possesses approximately 6.2 trillion tons of buried hydrogen reserves. Remarkably, a mere 2% of this vast resource could potentially fulfill global energy needs for the next 200 years. The surprising scale of these findings has intrigued researchers and industry experts alike, signaling a significant shift in perceptions about hydrogen as a clean energy source. The study conducted by USGS scientists has identified several regions in the U.S., including parts of Michigan, eastern Kentucky, and southern North Dakota, as high-potential areas for natural hydrogen deposits. The presence of hydrogen in these regions is attributed to chemical reactions in rocks that generate the gas, with implications for future energy exploration and utilization. Although the commercial feasibility of extracting this hydrogen remains uncertain, the discovery opens up new avenues for hydrogen-based technologies, particularly in the transportation and off-road vehicle sectors. The USGS research not only sheds light on the untapped potential of hydrogen reserves but also paves the way for advancements in fuel-cell technology and sustainable energy solutions. As major industry players like Cummins, JCB, and Toyota show increasing interest in hydrogen-powered engines and vehicles, the USGS findings serve as a catalyst for innovation and investment in the hydrogen energy sector. The prospect of leveraging natural subterranean hydrogen reserves for clean energy production holds promise for reducing carbon emissions and driving the transition towards a more sustainable energy landscape.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.