1 April 2026
A potential hydrogen treasure beneath Belgium?
The discovery of a large natural hydrogen reservoir in Pontpierre near Metz in France - estimated at around 34 million tonnes - has sparked strong interest in whether this ‘white hydrogen’ could extend into Belgian territory, possibly reaching Luxembourg and Germany. The hydrogen was discovered in the REGALOR II project, which aims to characterise the resource of natural hydrogen and identify methods for its extraction. Such naturally occurring hydrogen could be a gamechanger and potentially enough to cover Belgium’s electricity needs for more than a decade. In response, Belgian minister of Climate and Ecological Transition, Jean-Luc Crucke indicated that Belgium is preparing further research into its subsurface, investing €1.5 million in a first phase. The operation is expected to last up to three years and cost approximately €3.5 million, with funding provided through the Emission Trading System (ETS). If accessible resources are found, they could strengthen energy independence, lower costs, and support the energy transition. Expectations remain cautious given the technical and economic uncertainties. "Natural hydrogen is no longer a scientific curiosity. We will closely monitor these exciting developments", commented Adwin Martens, WaterstofNet’s CSO.