Three scientists from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are exploring the vast renewable energy potential hidden under the Midcontinental Rift, a 1,200-mile stretch of volcanic rock that runs from below Lake Superior through several U.S. states. The rift contains natural hydrogen deposits that could serve as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The team, comprising experts in biological systems engineering, earth sciences, and civil engineering, aims to harness hydrogen generated from organic deposits in the midcontinent subsurface. Their research, initiated five years ago with an exploratory well in Nebraska, has shown promising results. The geomechanical conditions in the rift have trapped hydrogen gas, making the deposits economically viable for energy production. The Midcontinental Rift's ideal geology, located between 3,000 and 5,000 feet underground, allows for accessible harvesting of hydrogen gas. This renewable energy source has the potential to meet energy demands for millennia, providing a clean and sustainable fuel option. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln team envisions contributing to the global transition towards cleaner energy sources by tapping into hydrogen reserves. Unlike some hydrogen deposits that are inaccessible due to depth or distance, the rift's hydrogen is close enough to be drilled economically. This proximity to the surface distinguishes the Midcontinental Rift as a prime location for extracting clean fuel options. The world's recognition of the importance of reducing carbon emissions has propelled hydrogen into the spotlight as a zero-carbon alternative. The efforts of the UNL researchers align with the global shift towards cleaner fuel sources, aiming to establish a 'hydrogen economy.' The potential for hydrogen mining is not exclusive to the United States, as countries like Russia, Germany, and locations in Africa also offer viable opportunities. By unlocking the renewable energy potential of the Midcontinental Rift, the research team hopes to pave the way for a sustainable energy future.