Let’s dive into one more energy storage option that could be a great fit for the Oil Region: green hydrogen. Green hydrogen is made through a process called electrolysis, where electricity is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen can then be stored and used later in fuel cells. When green hydrogen is made with renewable energy, it has a minimal carbon footprint, as it releases only water vapor when used. Plus, it’s a clean solution for hard-to-decarbonize industries like manufacturing.
Here’s where it gets exciting: the Oil Region might already have just what we need to make this work. Depleted oil wells could be repurposed for green hydrogen storage, turning them into secure, underground storage sites. This approach would help us store renewable energy while also reducing emissions. Bringing green hydrogen to our area could mean less reliance on fossil fuels, cleaner air, new jobs, and a chance for the Oil Region to lead the way in green technology.
So, how does it all work? Abandoned or depleted oil and gas wells are great candidates for hydrogen storage because they’re already built to safely handle pressurized gasses. Hydrogen is produced by electrolysis and then injected into these wells, where it stays until it’s needed. From there, it can be turned back into electricity, used in fuel cells, or even distributed to power other systems.
There are some major environmental perks to this setup. Repurposing old wells means we don’t need to clear land for new storage facilities, which helps protect local ecosystems. Hydrogen itself is a clean energy reserve—it can replace high-emission energy sources, and when used, it only emits water vapor. In some cases, the process even traps carbon dioxide (CO₂) in solid form, keeping it locked underground instead of releasing it into the atmosphere.
The Oil Region, with its rich history of oil production and abundant abandoned wells, is in a great position to lead this charge. Transforming old wells into hydrogen storage sites could create skilled jobs in areas like drilling, maintenance, and hydrogen management—giving the local economy a big boost. Plus, hydrogen storage can help balance renewable energy sources like wind and solar, ensuring we have power even during low-production times. Repurposing wells also tackles safety concerns like methane leaks from abandoned sites, turning environmental risks into opportunities for sustainability.
In short, using old oil wells for green hydrogen storage is a win-win. It checks the boxes for environmental goals, economic growth, and smart use of existing resources. For regions like ours, it’s an exciting chance to take steps toward a clean, sustainable energy future.
Want to continue the conversation? If you would like to learn more or if you would like to get involved or have your voice heard, we’d love to hear from you! You can reach out via email: rachel@riverrootsredevelopment.org. Keep an eye on our website: riverrootsredevelopment.org and Facebook page @RiverRootsRedevelopment for more updates and for upcoming Community Coffee Chats, where you can find out more about local projects and share your own ideas with some of those involved in local redevelopment.
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Rachel Brosnahan is the Community Engagement Coordinator for River Roots Redevelopment. She can be reached by email at rachel@riverrootsredevelopment.org.
