Natural hydrogen and helium found in NSW geological study
Natural hydrogen and helium found in a NSW survey could enable low-cost clean fuel production and provide critical resources for medical, industrial, and space sectors
A collaborative study by Geoscience Australia and the Geological Survey of New South Wales (GSNSW) has uncovered elevated levels of natural hydrogen and helium in several areas across New South Wales.
Natural hydrogen, a clean-burning fuel that emits only water vapour and heat, has the potential to revolutionise energy markets, while helium remains vital for various industrial applications. These findings could position Australia as a leader in the exploration and utilisation of these resources, strengthening its role in global energy and industrial sectors.
The findings are part of the Australian Government’s Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity initiative, a $3.4 billion investment over 35 years under the Future Made in Australia plan. The research offers geological insights and methods for analysing soil gas samples for natural hydrogen, enhancing the scientific understanding of this emerging resource.
"The economics of our geology is undeniable and presents us with an enormous opportunity. The Albanese Government is committed to unlocking our minerals potential and discovering opportunities for alternative energy and storage,” Minister for Resources, Madeleine King MP said in a statement today.
Advantages of natural hydrogen
Unlike manufactured hydrogen, which requires a several step production process, naturally occurring hydrogen could be extracted directly from the earth for use in reducing emissions in industries such as heavy transport, remote power, and steelmaking.
Australia’s ancient geology is well-suited to natural hydrogen exploration, with the study identifying high concentrations in soil gas surveys conducted in central and far west NSW, including the Curnamona Province and Delamerian Orogen. The analysis revealed hydrogen levels reaching up to 309.5 parts per million (ppm), a concentration comparable to or exceeding similar surveys conducted in Western Australia and overseas.
The study also identified helium, a critical resource for industries such as medical imaging, manufacturing, and the space sector. Australia currently lacks domestic helium production, making this discovery particularly valuable.
Survey details and methodology
The research involved six soil gas surveys across central and western NSW. Samples were collected from shallow depths and analysed at the Geoscience Australia Laboratory to assess their molecular and isotopic composition. The data were then integrated into a geographic information system (GIS) to create detailed maps for explorers.
The study builds on the Exploring for the Future program, which began in 2016 to encourage resource exploration in underdeveloped regions of Australia. By providing pre-competitive data and insights, the program aims to attract investment and support Australia’s transition to a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
