Japan to begin surveying for natural hydrogen deposits

TOKYO -- The Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) will start looking for natural hydrogen deposits underground in the country within fiscal 2025, hoping to find a cheap source of a next-generation fuel that does not emit carbon dioxide when burned.

Hydrogen use is projected to expand for power generation and fuel cell vehicles. Obtaining hydrogen from oil, coal or natural gas emits CO2. Producing it using renewable energy-derived electricity does not emit CO2 but is costly.