Could a naturally occurring gas help power the energy transition? In the Italian Alps, geologist Othmar Müntener is searching for what’s called white hydrogen — hydrogen that forms naturally underground and may be continuously regenerated by geological processes. Early drilling has revealed hydrogen bubbles produced when water reacts with the mineral olivine deep in the Earth’s crust. This reaction could create a potentially abundant and climate-friendly energy resource. Magnetic surveys and laboratory tests support the findings. The next step is deeper drilling to determine whether large, usable deposits exist. If confirmed, natural hydrogen could open a new chapter in clean energy exploration.
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