In a presentation at this year’s MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power conference and exhibition in Dakar, Eric Schmid, Associate Director-Upstream Energy, S&P Global Energy highlighted that iron-rich rocks, cover rocks and deep-sealed faults in the region form essential elements for white hydrogen systems.

“There are only a few white hydrogen exploration projects active worldwide,” Schmid stated. “White hydrogen as a resource is not yet well understood, but interest of hydrogen as an energy source is increasing strongly.”

In his presentation, Schmid noted that deep structures, and cover rocks in Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry form a strong potential resource base for white hydrogen exploration, while spotlighting Mauritania’s branded rock formations as strong points for the country.

With its naturally occurring reserves, low production costs and minimal carbon footprint, it was noted that white hydrogen has the potential to complement ongoing renewable energy initiatives, while providing a clean solution for hard-to-abate sectors such as heavy industry and long-distance transport.

If successfully developed, Schmid emphasized that white hydrogen could offer the MSGBC region a transformative opportunity to leapfrog into low-carbon energy production.