British firms launch joint venture to tap Morocco’s hydrogen potential
British geoscience company Getech and energy transition firm Sound Energy have established a joint venture to explore Morocco’s untapped natural hydrogen and helium reserves, positioning the North African kingdom at the forefront of emerging clean energy technologies.
The newly formed HyMaroc Limited will focus on discovering and developing underground deposits of these critical resources, following completion of a regional survey that identified promising geological formations across Moroccan territory. The partnership represents a significant step toward unlocking Morocco’s subsurface energy potential.
The venture centers on native hydrogen, commonly known as “white hydrogen,” which occurs naturally underground unlike hydrogen produced through industrial electrolysis or fossil fuel processes. Commercial-scale white hydrogen discovery could provide a low-cost, low-emission alternative to conventional hydrogen production methods.
“Getech’s unique hydrogen and helium exploration workflows are built on our valuable global geophysics data and our ability to understand the genetic factors involved in their formation,” explained Max Brouwers, Getech’s Commercial Director. The company applies petroleum industry techniques to categorize geological models including sources, migration paths, reservoirs, and seals.
Morocco’s extensive inland basins and growing reputation as a renewable energy hub enhance its attractiveness for hydrogen exploration. The kingdom’s strategic geographic position and existing energy infrastructure provide additional advantages for potential hydrogen development projects.
Helium, often found in the same geological reservoirs as hydrogen, adds further commercial value given its critical applications in medical equipment, scientific research, and high-technology industries. Global helium shortages have increased demand for new supply sources.
HyMaroc now seeks exclusive exploration rights to develop identified sites, with plans for targeted drilling campaigns to assess commercial viability.