The discovery of a white hydrogen deposit in Lorraine should motivate Wallonia to explore its own subterranean potential, according to Yvan Verougstraete, president of the Engagés, as reported in L’Echo on Thursday.
Preliminary data suggests researchers have identified a potential natural hydrogen reservoir in a former mining basin in French Lorraine, containing as much as 46 million tonnes, more than half of the current global annual production of grey hydrogen.
This finding in Lorraine raises hopes for similar discoveries in Wallonia. Verougstraete highlighted that Belgium "cannot remain a bystander" as this natural gas, produced without greenhouse gas emissions, could become a crucial component in the European and global energy transition.
Verougstraete calls for all Belgian stakeholders to mobilise, urging Belgium to swiftly initiate a national campaign to map and survey its underground resources.
"Some of our regions have geological characteristics similar to those in the Lorraine basin, especially in former mining areas. It would be irresponsible not to investigate this potential," he stated, urging the Walloon Government to start the process without delay.
He emphasises that Wallonia must at least evaluate the situation. "Based on the gathered data, and in locations showing potential, drilling must be conducted to verify the potential."
When contacted, the office of Energy Minister Cécile Neven (MR) declined to comment.
