Understanding the natural hydrogen potential of the Comminges
The Comminges permit
What is an Exclusive Exploration Permit (PER) ?
An Exclusive Exploration Permit (PER) is an authorization granted by the French State in accordance with the French Mining Code.
Reviewed by the DGEC, DREAL Occitanie, and DGALN, it enables an operator to conduct research activities on a specific resource within a defined geographic area for a limited period (five years, renewable up to twice).
A PER does not authorize industrial production. It strictly governs research and data acquisition activities, carried out under the supervision of the competent authorities.
- Upstream water supply
- Mantle kitchen reactor
- Active natural serpentinization
- Migration to reservoirs
- H2 reservoirs
- Surface leaks
- Infrastructure & offtakes
- Production drillhole
Hydrogeco was born from years of research by Mantle8’s team on the Pyrenees, exploring how their unique geological history can naturally generate hydrogen. By studying deep tectonic processes and the role of the Earth’s mantle, our scientists identified a promising natural energy potential.
Today, Hydrogeco brings this knowledge to life in the Comminges area.
The Comminges area features a distinctive geological setting, located at the foothills of the Pyrenees and characterized by the presence of mantle rocks near the surface.
The region exhibits mantle outcrops, as well as several circulation structures and natural hydrogen seepage points. These characteristics make Comminges a unique area for studying the natural mechanisms of hydrogen generation and migration.
The Comminges PER governs research activities aimed at improving the understanding of natural hydrogen-related systems.
The exploration activities currently being carried out rely on non-invasive technologies, including geoscience (geology, geochemistry, geophysics) and data simulation.
The PER was reviewed in June 2024 and was granted in April 2026.
The permit area
Located in the Pyrenean foothills, within a predominantly rural area.
The permit covers more than 739 km², spanning the Hautes-Pyrénées (65) and Haute-Garonne (31) departments, as shown on the adjacent map.
It includes 109 municipalities grouped into 7 intermunicipal communities.
Science as the foundation
Mantle8 relies on a rigorous scientific approach, grounded in recognized methodologies and the analysis of measured data.
This approach is notably supported by collaborations with CNRS research teams, ensuring the scientific quality of the work carried out.
The method
Geological and geophysical
data reprocessing
Field geological observations
Passive geophysical data acquisition
Data processing and 4D geophysical modeling
Technical and environmental studies
What is natural hydrogen?
Natural hydrogen is a gas that occurs naturally in the subsurface, produced by geological processes.
It is currently the subject of scientific research aimed at better understanding its origin, as well as its formation and migration mechanisms.
Is natural hydrogen a low-carbon and strategic energy source?
Natural hydrogen presents a significant decarbonization potential since it can replace grey hydrogen, which is highly carbon-intensive (mainly produced from methane) and widely used in heavy industries such as refining, metallurgy, and fertilizers production.
Its development could also helps strengthen energy independence by harnessing a local resource produced within the national territory.
What happens if hydrogen is identified in the Comminges area ?
If the studies confirm the presence of hydrogen in significant quantities, an additional evaluation phase would be initiated.
This could include the drilling of an exploratory well, subject to strict regulatory approvals.
If the exploration phase is successful, it would be followed by an application for an exploitation permit.
How does Hydrogeco ensure scientific rigor and transparency?
Our geoscience team relies on recognized scientific methods, established protocols, and collaborations with academic research teams, notably from the CNRS.
Particular attention is given to data quality, traceability, and the dissemination of clear information to the concerned local communities.
Community dialogue and participation
The success of the project depends on ongoing dialogue with local stakeholders.
Your feedback and questions help enrich the discussion and contribute to the evolution of the approach.
Have a question or would you like to get in touch ? Contact us.
The success of the project depends on ongoing dialogue with local stakeholders.
Your feedback and questions help enrich the discussion and contribute to the evolution of the approach.
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