The Energy Gold Rush? Unlocking Natural Hydrogen for a Carbon-free Future
By: Nadine Guerfi, KAP Business Development Executive
A Clean Energy Revolution Beneath Our Feet
Natural hydrogen, known as white, geologic, or gold hydrogen is found naturally in the Earth’s crust. Unlike grey or blue hydrogen, which are energy-intensive to produce, natural hydrogen requires no manufacturing process, emits no carbon when burned - leaving only water as a byproduct.
Recent discoveries suggest that the Earth may be continuously generating hydrogen deep underground, meaning potentially trillions of tons of untapped, clean energy.
Traditional hydrogen production, via electrolysis (green hydrogen) or methane reforming (grey/blue hydrogen) is costly and depends on external energy inputs. Natural hydrogen offers an alternative with:
1. No carbon emissions
2. Minimal energy input to extract
3. Naturally replenishing
4. Massive potential to scale.
It offers a zero-carbon energy source that does not need to be ‘made’, but rather simply discovered and tapped.
Bubbling mud pools formed by geothermal activity, where natural hydrogen may be seeping from underground - offering a glimpse into a potential clean energy source hidden beneath the Earth's surface.
Image source: Advanced Science News
Natural Hydrogen in the Middle East
While the Gulf has long been synonymous with fossil fuels, a shift could be underway, as economic and energy diversifications become top policy priority for the region. The World Hydrogen MENA conference scheduled for February 17-19, 2025, in Dubai provides a regional platform for hydrogen industry engagement and symbolises blooming opportunities for this sector. Particularly, countries like Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are looking below the surface, literally, for cleaner futures.
Oman: Oman has already confirmed natural hydrogen emissions from geological formations such as the Samail Ophiolite. With international research collaborations underway, Oman is becoming the region’s most promising site for near-term hydrogen exploration.
Saudi Arabia: The Kingdom has one of the world’s most advanced geological survey programs and is actively backing hydrogen initiatives through sovereign wealth funds like the Public Investment Fund (PIF). While its focus remains on blue and green hydrogen, its deep-pocketed support for innovation makes it a key market.
UAE: While not yet focused on geologic hydrogen, the UAE’s R&D capacity, along with its push to lead on energy transition, makes it a potential incubator for future partnerships and pilot projects.
Satellite map showing the Middle East and surrounding regions, including parts of North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Western Asia.
H2Au: A First-Mover in Natural Hydrogen
H2Au is positioning itself as a global leader in natural hydrogen exploration and production (E&P). By applying proprietary geological models, the company is:
Securing exclusive lease areas
Forming joint ventures with national and academic partners
Building a de-risked, commercially scalable portfolio
Natural hydrogen could align economic diversification with global climate goals. And early-stage companies willing to move fast have a chance to shape the emerging market, especially with fluid regulatory frameworks that still allow for creative structuring.
Owain Jackson, H2Au CEO, commented: “We view natural hydrogen as a global opportunity, with potential across every continent. As such, we actively seek partnerships with government agencies and research institutions in both the countries where we currently operate and those where we aim to expand. Collaborating with local experts who bring deep knowledge, data, and regulatory insight enables a valuable exchange of skills and ideas between the public and private sectors. This synergy can unlock new sites with strong potential for hydrogen exploration and production. The Middle East, in particular, stands out with its promising geology, robust infrastructure, investment appetite, and skilled workforce. We are enthusiastic about building partnerships in the region to grow our portfolio and advance the future of clean energy."
The H2Au team in the field conducting geological studies for hydrogen exploration in South Africa
Concerns
Like any emerging technology, natural hydrogen raises questions that must be addressed, regarding practicality, cost, and ethical considerations.
Regarding costs, the economics of extraction are still being modeled, and infrastructure is nascent, particularly as the main reserves of hydrogen are currently unknown.
Regarding practicality, there are concerns on the drilling’s effect on the environment. Hydrogen is a powerful greenhouse gas in the upper atmosphere. Drilling may also disturb ecosystems or aquifers.
In terms of ownership, there are critical equity and indigenous rights considerations, especially in developing regions.
A Just Transition
Natural hydrogen might help us decarbonise the planet, but if mishandled, it risks repeating the injustices of previous energy booms. The goal must be not just a cleaner planet, but a fairer and more equitable energy system.
The Middle East has the geology, capital, and ambition to lead a new kind of energy revolution. As natural hydrogen comes into focus, the race is on not just to find it, but to develop it wisely.
With its early mover advantage and scientific edge, companies like H2Au are well-positioned to help shape this future…
