The Kansas Hydrogen Gold Rush: Bill Gates-backed Startups Search for Clean Energy Treasure
Key Ideas
  • Startups in Kansas are exploring for naturally occurring hydrogen, backed by significant investments from Bill Gates and others, aiming to revolutionize the energy transition.
  • The potential discovery of commercial quantities of naturally occurring hydrogen could lead to a cleaner and cheaper energy source compared to current methods of hydrogen production.
  • Approximately 50 geologic hydrogen companies are in operation globally, supported by funding from various sources including mining giants and venture capital firms like Breakthrough Energy Ventures.
In a quiet stretch of Kansas prairie, a new Gold Rush is underway as startups funded by the likes of Bill Gates delve deep into the ground in search of naturally occurring hydrogen. This clean energy treasure hunt aims to harness hydrogen, a fuel that could revolutionize the energy transition by providing power without contributing to climate change. The Midcontinent Rift under Kansas holds promise, with its iron-rich rocks capable of producing hydrogen when exposed to water, heat, and pressure. Companies like Koloma and HyTerra have attracted significant investments, with the potential to change the energy landscape. The hunt for naturally occurring hydrogen is akin to clean energy wildcatting, with possibilities of both success and failure, highlighting the risks involved in venturing into uncharted territories. Discovering commercial quantities of naturally occurring hydrogen could offer a more cost-effective and cleaner alternative to current hydrogen production methods. With approximately 50 geologic hydrogen companies globally and growing interest from various sectors, including oil and gas conglomerates, the pursuit of hydrogen as a clean energy source is gaining momentum. This endeavor represents a significant step towards finding proven emissions-cutting technologies that are crucial in combating climate change and transitioning to a sustainable energy future.
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