Subsurface Storage Technological Advancements & Innovation for Hydrogen (SUSTAIN H2)

ABSTRACT: The Sustain H2 program is a cross-functional initiative focused on accelerating the safe and sustainable adoption of Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS) - a critical enabler for long-duration, low-carbon energy storage. While hydrogen is gaining momentum across transportation and industry, large-scale storage remains a challenge. Sustain H2 targets porous rock formations, which make up 80% of global subsurface storage potential, yet remain underutilized compared to salt caverns. By integrating advanced reservoir simulations, experimental testing, and techno-economic analysis, the program is building a robust framework to evaluate site feasibility, control hydrogen migration, and ensure operational safety and regulatory compliance. This talk The Sustain H2 program is a collaborative initiative aimed at promoting the safe and sustainable adoption of Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS), which is essential for long-duration, low-carbon energy storage. Although hydrogen is becoming increasingly important in transportation and industry, large-scale storage poses a challenge. Sustain H2 focuses on utilizing porous rock formations, which account for 80% of the global potential for subsurface storage, yet are currently underutilized compared to salt caverns. By combining advanced reservoir simulations, experimental testing, and techno-economic analysis, the program is developing a comprehensive framework to assess site feasibility, manage hydrogen migration, and ensure both operational safety and regulatory compliance. This talk will introduce Sustain H2’s vision and recent advancements while highlighting opportunities for collaboration across sectors to unlock the next frontier in hydrogen storage.