In a discovery that could reshape America’s energy landscape, scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking map revealing vast reserves of natural hydrogen—dubbed “gold hydrogen”—buried beneath 30 U.S. states. This clean energy treasure trove, hidden in geological formations called rift-inversion orogens, promises to revolutionize how we power everything from vehicles to power plants.

The U.S. Geological Survey’s interactive map has identified highly prospective areas across Michigan, eastern Kentucky, southern North Dakota, and parts of Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Iowa, and Oklahoma. These regions meet the critical geological criteria for hydrogen formation: suitable hydrogen sources, porous reservoir rocks, and natural seals to trap the gas.

Unlike other forms of hydrogen production that require significant energy input, gold hydrogen forms naturally through a process called serpentinization—when water interacts with certain rock types in the Earth’s crust. This makes it potentially one of the cleanest and most cost-effective energy sources available.

Why Rift-Inversion Orogens Are the New Energy Hotspots

The real game-changer lies in understanding why these particular geological formations are so promising. Rift-inversion orogens—created by the folding of rift basins—offer ideal conditions for hydrogen generation, including:

  • Colder temperatures that optimize serpentinization and H2 production
  • Ready-made reservoirs and seals necessary for economic hydrogen accumulations
  • Complete “hydrogen systems” analogous to petroleum systems

Research suggests these formations could produce up to 20 times more hydrogen annually compared to traditional rifting environments, making them prime targets for energy companies looking to stake their claims in this new frontier.

The Clean Energy Gold Rush

The implications for the global energy transition are profound. This naturally occurring hydrogen could accelerate the shift away from carbon-intensive fuels without the environmental downsides of other energy sources. Its widespread distribution across various geological formations and countries could democratize access to clean energy resources, potentially reshaping the global energy landscape.

As exploration companies race to develop extraction technologies, we may be witnessing the early days of a clean energy gold rush that could make hydrogen the defining fuel of the 21st century.