TECHNICAL VIABILITY OF UNDERGROUND HYDROGEN STORAGE IN DEPLETED HYDROCARBON RESERVOIRS: A GLOBAL COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

Purpose of the work. This study evaluates the technical viability of underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs, with a particular focus on Central European basin conditions. The work aims to assess whether depleted oil and gas fields can provide large-scale, long-duration hydrogen storage as an alternative to geographically constrained salt cavern systems.

Methodology. The research is based on a structured literature review and comparative analysis of peer-reviewed publications, international energy agency reports, and documented field pilot projects. Data from Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia were collected and standardized, including reservoir depth, porosity, permeability, operating pressure, hydrogen recovery, and deliverability. Where field data were unavailable, validated numerical simulations and analogue reservoir models were used to ensure consistent engineering evaluation.

Scientific novelty. The study provides a unified global comparison of ten underground hydrogen storage projects in depleted reservoirs, integrating geological, engineering, and operational parameters into a single analytical framework. It highlights the scalability and performance consistency of sandstone reservoirs across different regions and demonstrates their suitability as a major long-term hydrogen storage solution, particularly in regions lacking salt cavern geology.

Conclusions. Results confirm that depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs are technically feasible and scalable for hydrogen storage, with typical operating pressures between 140–220 bar and hydrogen recovery exceeding 80 % under controlled conditions. Hydrogen losses due to dissolution and geochemical interactions remain minimal, while microbial effects are site-dependent and manageable. The findings support the role of depleted reservoirs as a key infrastructure component for future low-carbon energy systems, especially in Central Europe where geological conditions are favorable.