Global Warming – Michigan Studying Geologic Hydrogen

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Global Warming – Michigan Studying Geologic Hydrogen

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Governor Gretchen Whitmer yesterday signed an executive directive creating an initiative to explore geologic hydrogen as a usable, clean fuel alternative. The signing occurred backstage at the Detroit Auto Show just before Whitmer delivered a keynote speech (Read AutoInformed.com on: Whitmer Stands in Stark Contrast to Trump at Detroit Auto Show)* Michigan’s unique geology is thought to be one of the most promising regions in the world for geologic hydrogen, a naturally occurring clean energy resource. This new initiative will determine the possibility of tapping into Michigan’s geologic hydrogen and using this natural fuel to build the future of clean energy.

“Michigan is a leader in clean-energy solutions,” said Governor Whitmer. “This initiative will uncover more about Michigan’s geologic hydrogen stores, which have the potential to attract long-term investments in our state and create thousands of good paying jobs for Michiganders. Together, we’re building the future of clean energy in Michigan.” [Whether this prompts an Invasion by the Trump Administration remains to be seen – AutoCrat]

“Geologic hydrogen represents a transformative opportunity for Michigan, a state historically rich in natural resources and innovation,” said Jim Saber, President and CEO of NextEnergy. “By tapping into this abundant, naturally occurring resource, Michigan can lead the way in sustainable energy, create new jobs, and drive technological advancement. This isn’t just about energy—it’s about securing Michigan’s future as a leader in environmental stewardship and economic resilience, ensuring prosperity for generations to come.”

Geologic Hydrogen

Geologic hydrogen is a natural energy resource with the potential to serve as a fuel source at a scale and price that is competitive with fossil fuels. This uniquely clean resource can de-carbonize some of the highest emission-producing industries, such as heavy-duty transportation, maritime shipping, and manufacturing. Michigan’s high potential for large, natural stores of geologic hydrogen has drawn significant national and international attention. Today’s initiative will build on Michigan’s leadership in clean-energy solutions.

“Investments in geologic hydrogen will solidify Michigan’s place at the forefront of the U.S. hydrogen economy, which is projected to reach tens of billions of dollars in new economic activity. Opportunities in clean hydrogen will create new, high-wage jobs for Michiganders, lower industrial production costs, encourage long-term, statewide investments, and keep Michigan competitive in a global marketplace,” the Administration’s press release said.

Assorted Accompanying Opinions

“It’s not every day we discover new, abundant energy sources — the last one was nuclear power over 80 years ago,” said Ishan Sharma, who directs geologic hydrogen efforts at Renaissance Philanthropy. “It’s even better when the new resource is potentially 90% less expensive than the way we make clean hydrogen today. Michigan’s one of the best places to show the world how geologic hydrogen can lower the costs of goods like steel & fuels, while cutting emissions in those industries decades earlier than anyone thought possible.”

“Michigan has the natural resources and industrial know-how to lead in clean fuels and hydrogen production,” said Jane McCurry, Executive Director of Clean Fuels Michigan. “This Executive Directive takes an important step toward responsibly developing geologic hydrogen, helping position the state to attract private investment, support manufacturing growth, and create high-quality jobs.”

“Governor Whitmer’s directive sends a clear signal that Michigan is serious about leading in geological hydrogen,” said Judd Herzer, Director of Mobility Research and Innovation at Michigan State University. “With the right coordination across state agencies, research institutions, and the private sector geological hydrogen can move rapidly from scientific promise to practical application, supporting hydrogen-powered mobility, clean energy independence, and the advanced manufacturing opportunities that will define Michigan’s next era of innovation.”

Clean Energy Future – Whitmer-Gilchrist Administration Actions

Today’s executive directive is said to build on Governor Whitmer’s commitment to a clean-energy future for Michigan. Since taking office, the Whitmer-Gilchrist Administration has:

  • Michigan named a leader in clean energy race, ranked 6th nationally for clean energy jobs, #1 state for energy sector job growth, automotive industry and electric vehicle investments.
  • Signed a historic legislation package to deliver on the MI Healthy Climate Plan and develop a road map for Michigan to reach 100% carbon neutrality by 2050.
  • Signed a package of bills making Michigan a national leader in clean energy with the adoption of a 100% clean energy standard and more.
  • Signed bipartisan budgets investing millions in climate-resilient infrastructure, electric school buses, renewable energy for low-income families, and more.
  • Launched a new office to help Michigan workers take advantage of high-tech, high-paying jobs in automotive and clean energy sectors.
  • Reopened Palisades, protecting 600 union jobs and clean power for 1.4 million homes.

*AutoInformed on

About Ken Zino

Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn. He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe. Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap. AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks. Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.
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