GIS-based analysis of rock salt deposits’ suitability for underground hydrogen storage

The paper discusses the suitability of bedded salt deposits for underground hydrogen storage facilities. The presented research is an example of multi-criteria decision analysis coupled with spatial data analysis undertaken using GIS (Geographic Information System). The aim of this study is to develop a methodology for selecting the best locations for hydrogen storage in salt caverns. In the analysis, we take into account the results of previous studies of the storage capacity of rock salt deposits. The presented methodology allows the creation of rock salt deposit suitability maps for underground hydrogen storage. The results show that the applied method significantly influences the resulting map image, helping to identify optimal locations for hydrogen storage facilities. The presented approach may be of value to governmental institutions considering underground hydrogen storage, geological services, power plants producing electricity from renewable energy sources, and chemical and petrochemical plants.