For many years, hydrogen has been thought to have been in large amounts of free in nature. However, two major discoveries in France may not only change this perception, but can open the door of a radical transformation in the energy world. Because hydrogen, underground naturally, was discovered in a renewable way.

Revolution in Hydrogen

In May 2023, scientists came across natural hydrogen deposits in abandoned mines in the Lorraine region of France. Then, in March 2025, with the discovery made at a depth of 1,250 meters in the Moselle region, the size of these reserves became more clear. According to estimates, a total of 92 million tons of white hydrogen (naturally formed hydrogen) is calculated as approximately 92 billion dollars. This source is equivalent to more than half of the gray hydrogen (hydrogen produced by fossil sources) produced worldwide. In a separate study last year, it was estimated that underground hydrogen reservoirs had approximately 6.2 trillion tons of hydrogen. It was even stated that the mountains could be the primary source point.

As it is known, it is a tedious process to produce hydrogen today and in most techniques, significant amounts of pollution emerges. The newly discovered white hydrogen can offer a completely clean alternative because it is formed by natural means. Moreover, scientists suggest that this hydrogen can be renewable. A geological process called “serpentinization olur can produce hydrogen with the reaction of water with iron -rich minerals in the earth’s crust. If this process continues continuously, white hydrogen can be an inexhaustible source like fossil fuels. In addition, this new energy source offers an environmentally friendly alternative, as it can be achieved at a lower cost and without carbon release compared to the production of green hydrogen (produced to renewable energy).

Can be in other countries

The Lorraine region, which is traditionally referred to as coal and steel, can become an energy center with this discovery. However, it is not known whether the hydrogen discovered in this region is found with rich mineral resources such as coal and steel in the region. If it is not a coincidence, white hydrogen is likely to be common in the world. Experts think that similar reserves can be found in different regions worldwide.

Difficulties available

Although the discovery creates great excitement, there are technological and economic difficulties for the removal of natural hydrogen on a commercial scale. Today, there is an advanced infrastructure in the oil and natural gas sector, while there is not enough knowledge and technical equipment for white hydrogen. In addition, lack of legislation is an important obstacle. Low energy density and relocation difficulties of hydrogen should also be taken into consideration. The transport and storage of hydrogen compared to oil and natural gas requires a more complex process.

On the other hand, the discovery in France can create a global domino effect in the energy sector. Energy companies and researchers around the world have examined similar geological structures and began to re -evaluate white hydrogen beds and rock formations. If there is a large amount of natural hydrogen in other countries, this can accelerate the replacement of fossil fuels in the global energy market.