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  • Unlocking Hidden Energy: Gold Hydrogen Beneath Our Feet

    The cost of green hydrogen has not gone down yet they way it should have according to predictions. This is disappointing and a risk to the maritime industry using hydrogen as fuel. However here is positive news for the longer term: golden hydrogen.

    Gold hydrogen

    Hydrogen is not just an energy source for the future; it’s already beneath our feet. The unseen and untapped potential of naturally occurring hydrogen, known as “gold” hydrogen, has come to light. Engineers and geologists have now mapped this hydrogen across the United States.

    A groundbreaking map reveals hydrogen reserves under at least 30 U.S. states. This map is the first of its kind, showcasing regions rich in this valuable resource. Such findings could transform energy production, making it more sustainable and economically viable.

    Source: USGS https://certmapper.cr.usgs.gov/data/apps/hydrogen/

    The map results from new research aimed at understanding subsurface hydrogen presence. Scientists believe that geological processes produce this hydrogen naturally. It leaks to the surface from deep within the Earth over thousands of years.

    Cost effectiveness

    Using this gold hydrogen could redefine renewable energy. Unlike traditional hydrogen production, which is energy-intensive, gold hydrogen is naturally available. It offers a cleaner alternative, potentially reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

    The key advantage is its cost-effectiveness. Tapping into these reserves could be cheaper than producing hydrogen artificially. This natural hydrogen has a lower environmental footprint, contributing to a greener planet.

    Challenges ahead

    Navigating challenges is essential to harness this resource. There needs to be a focus on technology development for efficient extraction. Furthermore, sustainable practices must guard against potential environmental impacts.

    The discovery opens doors for renewed interest in hydrogen as a crucial player in energy strategy. By investing in research and development, the U.S. can lead global efforts in clean energy innovation.

    In summary, gold hydrogen holds promise for the future of sustainable energy. With these new findings, a path to cleaner production and economic opportunity lies ahead. As the demand for alternative energy grows, the significance of such discoveries becomes ever more critical.

  • Hydrogen Pricing in the EU: Challenges and Opportunities

    This post is based on the recent Bloomberg article which highlight hydrogen challenges. The challenges mentioned align with my own experience: delayed project and high pricing present another challenge for ship owners who decided to take the leap and use green hydrogen as fuel. However, with a new round of EU Hydrogen Bank auction, Fuel EU Maritime kicking in, and more hydrogen vessel deliveries 2025 may bring positive changes.

    As the European Union (EU) races towards its ambitious net-zero emissions target, hydrogen is emerging as a cornerstone of its energy transition strategy. However, a closer look at hydrogen pricing reveals both the promise and the challenges of integrating this versatile fuel into Europe’s decarbonization framework.

    Current Hydrogen Pricing Landscape in the EU

    • Green Hydrogen Costs: Today, the production costs of green hydrogen in the EU range from €3.50 to €10 per kilogram, driven by the high expenses associated with renewable energy and electrolyzer technology. Despite these challenges, BloombergNEF (BNEF) predicts that by 2050, advancements in technology and economies of scale will reduce costs to €1.50 to €5 per kilogram.
    • Gray Hydrogen Costs: The EU currently relies heavily on gray hydrogen, which is produced from natural gas without capturing carbon emissions. Gray hydrogen remains cheaper at €1 to €2 per kilogram, but its environmental impact is increasingly penalized by rising carbon taxes under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS).

    The Role of Policy and Subsidies

    To bridge the cost gap between gray and green hydrogen, the EU has introduced a range of policy measures:

    • European Hydrogen Bank: A funding initiative aimed at scaling hydrogen production and infrastructure.
    • National Hydrogen Strategies: Many member states have outlined clear roadmaps for hydrogen development, focusing on industrial use and transport applications.

    Despite these efforts, regulatory hurdles and delays in funding allocation are slowing the momentum. Streamlining approval processes for renewable energy projects and electrolyzer installations is essential to accelerate progress.

    Overcoming Market Challenges

    The EU hydrogen market faces several key obstacles:

    1. Project Delays: High upfront costs and regulatory complexity have caused delays and cancellations of hydrogen projects across the region.
    2. Demand Uncertainty: While sectors like steelmaking, chemicals, and heavy transport view hydrogen as critical for decarbonization, the lack of stable pricing and economic incentives has dampened immediate demand.
    3. Infrastructure Gaps: Investments in pipelines, storage, and fueling stations remain insufficient to support widespread hydrogen adoption.

    A Path Forward for Green Hydrogen

    Despite these challenges, the long-term prospects for green hydrogen in the EU remain strong. The declining costs of renewable energy, combined with technological innovations in electrolyzers, position the EU to become a global leader in hydrogen production.

    To achieve this, the EU must:

    • Expand its carbon pricing mechanisms to further discourage gray hydrogen use.
    • Provide greater clarity and consistency in funding for hydrogen projects.
    • Strengthen international partnerships to secure raw materials and share technological expertise.

    Conclusion

    The EU’s commitment to hydrogen reflects its broader ambition to lead the world in clean energy innovation. While the road to widespread hydrogen adoption is fraught with challenges, targeted investments and policy support can turn green hydrogen from a costly innovation into a competitive, indispensable fuel for the future.

    By addressing these barriers head-on, the EU has the potential to set a global benchmark for integrating hydrogen into a sustainable energy economy.