Researchers from Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico are exploring a new frontier for clean energy storage – underground hydrogen reservoirs. With the goal of creating a hydrogen economy, experts believe that repurposing old gas and oil underground storage facilities could provide a solution for long-term hydrogen storage.
Hydrogen, a cleaner fuel source than natural gas and propane, is challenging to store in tanks due to its properties. By utilizing underground reservoirs that were previously used for fossil fuels, hydrogen could be safely stored for months and then resurfaced when needed.
Sandia’s research team, led by chemical engineer Tuan Ho, is conducting tests to determine the feasibility of injecting and retrieving hydrogen from underground storage sites. Early results show minimal loss of hydrogen underground, with the possibility of extracting residual natural gas or oil alongside the hydrogen.
While hydrogen fuel has the potential to significantly reduce air pollution, critics point out that its combustion can release nitrogen oxides, which can have adverse health effects. However, the U.S. Department of Energy reports that the emissions from hydrogen combustion are comparable to those of dirty fuel sources.
Despite the challenges, hydrogen-powered transportation offers a cleaner alternative to traditional vehicles, which contribute significantly to air pollution. As researchers continue to explore underground hydrogen storage, the potential for a decarbonized energy sector becomes more promising.
In the quest for cleaner energy solutions, the idea of storing hydrogen underground could revolutionize the way we power transportation and industries, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future.
