Scientists have found something under parts of Africa. This discovery could shake up the clean energy game because it isn’t coal, or gas, or oil. Approximately 1,400,000 kilograms of clean hydrogen can be found in this reservoir, which holds a total of 1,416,000 kilograms. Energy needs in Africa are growing faster than anything being done to meet these needs. Any news of advancements around clean energy on this continent should be celebrated, because they are few and far between. So, 1,416,000 kilograms of energy-rich material found in the ground is no small matter.
What is lurking in the ground under parts of Africa?
This particular form of energy has been deemed too pricey for Africa to produce, especially in large amounts. But a reservoir of this energy found in the ground could change that discussion. We’re talking about hydrogen. This massive reservoir of hydrogen could see things change for certain parts of Africa.
The ground is churning out a lot of hydrogen in parts of Africa. It is being stored in underground crevices. The Earth is making this hydrogen all on its own, no factories or pipelines. Untapped clean energy beneath the surface. But how exactly does natural hydrogen form?
How hydrogen could change the energy game in Africa
Natural hydrogen can form when certain rocks deep underground react with water. Minerals that have lots of iron split water molecules apart. Hydrogen gas is then set free. That gas collects underground over time. Much like gas and oil. This has happened in Mali, near the village of Bourakébougou, where a fire in a water well in the 2000s revealed gas that was nearly 98% pure hydrogen.
Geologists have been aware of this kind of process happening. They didn’t think much of it till now. The Earth is making a lot more hydrogen than once believed. Experts think this hydrogen can also replenish itself. That is a big plus for energy needs around the world, especially in Africa.
This hydrogen find in Africa will help lower emissions on the continent
This is an attractive find in terms of efforts to lower carbon emissions. Experts will be paying more attention to the ground all around the world. This is truly a renewable source of energy. African geology features many of the rock types that play a part in hydrogen formation. The right mix of minerals and water in the ground can be found all over the continent, meaning that Africa could lead the way when it comes to underground fuel.
The future of hydrogen looks bright in Africa
Natural hydrogen can be collected in easier ways than something like oil. No refineries and lavish gear are needed. It could be run through fuel cells to make clean energy or burned for power. No pollution or smoke. Africa is under pressure to match other parts of the world in lowering emissions. This could really help.
If hydrogen were paired with things like solar, it could do wonders. Africa has lots of sunshine. If natural hydrogen is as common as studies suggest, it could help lead Africa to a future of clean energy. Africa needs this, and soon. Burning hydrogen does not result in carbon dioxide being released. Another big advantage.
All the complex things needed to use coal, oil, and gas could be avoided thanks to this hydrogen discovery. Africa could benefit from clean fuel that comes from the Earth, a source that restocks itself. Significant reductions in smoke or pollution could see Africa making more of a contribution to decarbonization.
The viability of extracting huge amounts of hydrogen depends on the resource being managed correctly in Africa, a continent plagued by corruption and various other issues. Right now, experts are exploring the possibilities of new hydrogen sources in Africa. Hydrogen will shape the future of Africa’s energy needs if everything goes right.
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