Monash experts: Trump, green commodities, and turning old gas fields into hydrogen vaults

Monash University

The following Monash experts are available to provide insights into how the US election may impact the energy sector and offer perspectives relevant to both policy and technology in clean energy, sustainability and resource management.

Professor Ranjith Pathegama Gamage, Director of Deep Earth Energy Research Lab, Civil Engineering
Contact: +61 3 9903 4840 or ranjith.pg@monash.edu
Read Ranjith’s commentary at Monash Lens

Turning old gas fields into hydrogen vaults
How shifts in US energy strategy may impact resource extraction and management practices globally, particularly regarding critical minerals used in renewable technologies.

The following quotes can be attributed to Professor Gamage:

Turning old gas fields into hydrogen vaults - “Our research is currently exploring the feasibility of large-scale, long-term hydrogen storage in depleted gas fields and engineered rock caverns.

“Hydrogen offers immense potential as a clean energy source, yet scalable and safe storage remains a critical challenge. Storing hydrogen in underground reservoirs could offer a strong solution for energy security, ensuring stable storage during periods of surplus and easy access during peak demand. Such a storage system could be a critical pillar of a dependable, clean energy grid.

“Our team is also investigating ways to produce hydrogen from natural systems. This approach could provide a transformative alternative to traditional hydrogen production, lowering environmental impact and enhancing the accessibility of hydrogen as a future energy source.”

Associate Professor Stuart Walsh, Deputy Director of Research, Civil Engineering
Contact: +61 435 827 873 or stuart.walsh@monash.edu
Read more of Stuart’s commentary at Monash Lens

The impact of the US election on green commodity exports from Australia
Green commodities (green iron and steel, green ammonia and hydrogen)
Critical mineral exploration and development
Sustainable aviation fuel

The following quotes can be attributed to Stuart:

“The energy transition provides Australia with a fantastic opportunity to reinvigorate our economy. However, we are not the only country blessed with high quality renewable resources. Unless we act boldly, this opportunity will be lost."

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For any other topics on which you may be seeking expert comment, contact the Monash University Media Unit on +61 3 9903 4840 or media@monash.edu