H2Au and 45-8 Energy have formed a Joint Strategic Alliance to explore natural hydrogen deposits. The companies will undertake the Humboldt Project in Kansas and the Fayette Project in Iowa. Both sites have shown promising signs of natural hydrogen deposits.
Promising Natural Hydrogen Deposits Found
The Kansas site previously showed hydrogen and helium concentrations of over 90% and 3%, respectively. In January 2024, the consortium secured close to 10,000 acres in Kansas and Iowa. They plan to continue expanding their portfolio.
45-8 Energy currently holds more than 574,000 acres in exploration licenses. They are developing Europe’s first helium production plant. H2Au has an established portfolio potential of over 12 million acres across Africa and the US.
Geological and Commercial Screening Program
H2Au and 45-8 Energy developed the Humboldt and Fayette projects based on a screening program. The program was conducted in 2023 and supported by the Natural Hydrogen Study Group (NHSG). Key points about the screening program include:
- Conducted by H2Au and 45-8 Energy in 2023
- Supported by the Natural Hydrogen Study Group (NHSG)
- Resulted in the development of the Humboldt and Fayette projects
- Demonstrates the companies’ expertise in identifying promising natural hydrogen deposits
H2Au will operate each site with a 60/40% H2Au/45-8 Energy working interest split in Project Humboldt. Project Fayette will have a 70/30% H2Au/45-8 Energy working interest split.
Commitment to Developing Natural Hydrogen Resources
Owain Jackson, CEO of H2Au, stated, “The Humboldt and Fayette projects demonstrate our commitment to developing natural hydrogen resources. We aim to support evolving global energy needs. We believe the era of natural hydrogen exploration and production is upon us. Working together in this growing space provides strength and sustainability for the long term.”
Nicolas Pelissier, CEO of 45-8 Energy, added, “Our partnership with H2Au will demonstrate extensive experience in natural hydrogen. Thanks to our proprietary technologies, databases, and experienced teams, the alliance is well-prepared. We are ready for rapid and decisive development in the US.”
Other Natural Hydrogen Discoveries
In August 2024, Canada’s Max Power Mining found natural hydrogen deposits of up to 96.4% underground. The deposits were found in Saskatchewan. The company has since expanded its project by an additional 2,112 sq. km.
Read more: White Hydrogen: Transforming Mining’s Clean Energy Future
