Techno-economic analysis of natural and stimulated geological hydrogen

Geological hydrogen has emerged as a low-cost and low-carbon primary source of energy. This study provides a comprehensive techno-economic analysis of natural geological hydrogen (GH) and stimulated geological hydrogen (SGH) production, reaffirming its potential as a low-cost energy source. For the United States, we estimate production costs at $0.54/kg for GH and $0.92/kg for SGH, demonstrating the feasibility of achieving production below $1/kg under optimal conditions. Detailed sensitivity analyses reveal hydrogen purity and production flow rates at the well head as primary cost drivers along with final delivery pressure of hydrogen. Although, GH has lower cost, SGH's scalability, driven by ubiquitous iron-rich rocks and controlled production rates, positions it as a practical solution for co-locating near demand centers. These findings underscore the potential of geological hydrogen to contribute significantly to a sustainable energy future, provided further field data validates the underlying assumptions.