Geologic hydrogen studies: towards a greener future.

Presented by: Chris Boreham, Geoscience Australia

Abstract:

The global energy sector is transforming and H₂ is likely to play an increasingly prominent role as a clean energy carrier. Today, molecular hydrogen (H₂) is almost exclusively manufactured from fossil fuels through steam reformation of natural gas with co-generation of carbon dioxide (CO₂), resulting in grey H₂, and with carbon capture and storage of the CO₂, resulting in blue H₂. On the other hand, water electrolysis produces only H₂ and oxygen (O₂), resulting in green H₂ when electrolysis proceeds using renewable energy; the challenge is to significantly reduce the cost of this energetically unfavourable reaction. What is gaining increased interest is the potential use of naturally occurring H₂ where it is almost always present in natural gas (geologic H₂) and its extraction is likely to be cost effective if found in high enough concentration and volume. Most researches agree that Australia is one of the most promising regions for future exploration for geologic H₂. In my talk I will show the Australia-wide coverage of geologic H₂ in natural gas and describe where Geoscience Australia has advanced our understanding of the best places to look for H₂-rich natural gas in Australia.

Event Details:

Date / time: Wednesday, 17 August; 6.00 pm

Venue: Ayers House

Details: Cash Bar; canapes provided

Tickets:

$25 for PESA and SPE members; $40 for non-members.

Ticket sales close 1.00 pm Friday, 12th August