The Department of Energy (DOE) has reaffirmed its strategic partnership with US-based clean energy startup Koloma to accelerate natural hydrogen exploration in the Philippines.
In a high-level coordination meeting, officials from both the DOE and Koloma mapped out the next phases of their joint initiative, which aims to unlock the country’s potential for native, zero-emission hydrogen as a cornerstone of its future energy mix.
The discussions centered on critical updates regarding Koloma’s ongoing Active Gas Mapping (AGM) survey, a cutting-edge exploration technique used to identify subterranean hydrogen deposits.
Key milestones highlighted during the briefing include:
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Field Training and Capacity Building: Finalized preparations for upcoming field training exercises in the provinces of Zambales and Pangasinan. These sessions will directly involve DOE personnel, ensuring technology transfer and localized expertise in hydrogen exploration.
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Scientific and Field Collaboration: A mutual commitment to expanded scientific studies, rigorous field validation of geological data, and the strategic deployment of advanced exploration technologies.
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Sustainability Alignment: A shared vision to integrate natural hydrogen into the Philippines’ long-term sustainability and energy resilience frameworks. “Our continued collaboration with Koloma underscores the Philippines’ commitment to exploring innovative, future-ready energy solutions. Natural hydrogen represents a frontier opportunity to diversify our energy portfolio and strengthen our path toward a sustainable, low-carbon future, the DOE stated.
Natural hydrogen—often referred to as “white” or “gold” hydrogen—is trapped underground and can be extracted with a significantly lower carbon footprint and lower cost than manufactured hydrogen. The geological formations in regions like Zambales and Pangasinan have made the Philippines a prime location for Koloma’s international exploration efforts.
By combining the DOE’s regulatory oversight and local geological insights with Koloma’s industry-leading technology, the partnership aims to position the Philippines as an early adopter of natural hydrogen in Southeast Asia.
