Bill Gates has a long history of spotting emerging trends that shape the future, and his latest focus is on what could be the most significant energy revolution in U.S. history: geologic hydrogen. This is an attractive hydrogen source that claims to be naturally sourced, and these underground reserves could precipitate another “hydrogen rush,” especially in Colorado.

This has compelled investors like Gates to fund startups such as Koloma. These ventures seek to unlock this enormous potential, changing energy production and contributing to the global decarbonization of industries. With a new focus on geologic hydrogen, Colorado is positioning itself as a prime location for the search, ready to be at the forefront of America’s subsequent significant energy discovery.

The clean fuel underground: Why geologic hydrogen is being hailed as the next big thing

Hydrogen has been known for decades as a potent, ultra-clean fuel, the lightest of all elements in the universe. It liberates only water when burned and can be considered a perfect option for cutting down GHG emissions in energy-intensive industries. Abiotic hydrogen, an exogeologically sourced type mined directly from Earth’s crust, has recently captured the attention of both scientific and business communities.

Colorado is leading the charge, with Koloma among the pioneering firms exploiting this resource. Hydrothermal serpentinization generates Abiotic hydrogen naturally through a reaction between water and iron-bearing rocks.

This hydrogen is compelling because it’s carbon-free and can be collected more easily than hydrogen made through industrial processes. It’s an ideal solution for sectors where renewable energy sources like solar and wind aren’t feasible, such as steel manufacturing, long-haul transportation, and even aviation.

Colorado’s unique geology is driving a modern-day “hydrogen rush” as energy firms compete

Colorado’s unique geological characteristics make it ideal for geologic hydrogen exploration. Qualified geoscientists are eager to tap into this new resource thanks to its mining and energy history. The Front Range stands out as a key area, emerging as one of the most promising sources of hydrogen due to both public and private investment.

Koloma, a Denver-based startup funded by Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures, has already attracted over $300 million to explore and produce geologic hydrogen. The firm’s expertise in oil and gas is now being applied to hydrogen extraction, a move that could dramatically accelerate the growth of this energy source.

The Colorado School of Mines, supported by federal funding, also works on tools to locate and capture geologic hydrogen, further solidifying Colorado’s position in this groundbreaking field.

Opportunities and hurdles in geologic hydrogen exploration: The next big energy challenge

Geologic hydrogen offers excellent potential, but several challenges must be addressed. One significant issue with hydrogen as a fuel is that it’s challenging to store and transport, as hydrogen is highly reactive and lightweight. Safety concerns about leakage and compatibility between hydrogen and natural gas infrastructure also remain.

Nonetheless, the potential for geologic hydrogen as a renewable energy source is well-documented. Unlike other forms of hydrogen that require energy input for generation, geologic hydrogen is already formed deep within Earth’s crust.

If these reserves are tapped, they could provide a clean energy stream for the next 200 years or more. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is already mapping hydrogen-rich areas, with the midwestern U.S. and the east coast particularly interesting.

Bill Gates bets big on hydrogen: His vision for the future of energy starts here

Bill Gates’ investment in geologic hydrogen exploration underscores his belief in its potential to revolutionize energy production. With backing from companies like Amazon and United Airlines, Breakthrough Energy Ventures sees hydrogen as key to the fight against climate change. These investments signal a shift from fossil fuels toward green energy solutions essential to preserving the environment.

Gates doesn’t just see hydrogen as a solution for powering industries without renewable sources. He also envisions hydrogen playing a critical role in agriculture, through low-carbon ammonia for fertilizers, and in heavy transportation. Ultimately, hydrogen has the potential to mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions while providing long-term energy security.