In a quest to find natural hydrogen hotspots, researchers led by Dr. Frank Zwaan from GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences discovered that geological mountain ranges with deep mantle rocks near the surface hold immense potential for natural hydrogen generation. The team utilized plate tectonic modeling to pinpoint these ideal environments, showing that mountain ranges offer superior conditions for serpentinization and hydrogen production compared to rift basins. The study emphasizes that the tectonic history of a region plays a crucial role in determining the formation of economically viable natural hydrogen reservoirs. By simulating the evolution of plate tectonics, the researchers identified when and where mantle rocks are exhumed in mountains, providing insights into efficient serpentinization processes. This research paves the way for intensified exploration efforts in mountain ranges like the Pyrenees and European Alps, where indications of natural hydrogen generation have already been observed. The findings suggest that these regions could potentially host significant natural hydrogen reserves, offering a promising avenue for sustainable energy production and advancing the global energy transition towards cleaner alternatives.