Alain Prinzhofer, a distinguished geochemist, has been at the forefront of unraveling the mysteries surrounding natural hydrogen exploration. Prinzhofer shared his insights on natural hydrogen in the energy landscape in an interview with EnergyNews.biz.
Prinzhofer’s research sheds light on the widespread presence of natural hydrogen across various regions globally, including Mali, Australia, and Brazil. This renewable energy source, generated through processes such as water reduction and radiolysis, holds promise as a potential contributor to the future energy mix.
Prinzhofer’s findings indicate that natural hydrogen production costs range between $0.5 and $1 per kilogram, making it competitive with traditional hydrocarbons. Moreover, the presence of helium as a valuable byproduct adds an extra dimension to its economic feasibility.
Prinzhofer emphasizes the importance of collaboration between researchers and industry stakeholders in advancing natural hydrogen knowledge. Real-world production data from extraction activities will play a crucial role in enhancing scientific understanding and informing future exploration strategies. Moreover, the synergy between natural hydrogen and green hydrogen production could pave the way for a more sustainable and cost-effective energy future.