Mali’s energy mix is heavily reliant on fossil fuels and traditional biomass, with over 60% of electricity generation coming from diesel-powered generators as of 2023–2025. While possessing significant solar and hydro potential, the country faces low access rates (56% overall, much lower in rural areas) and relies on imported oil.

Mali is home to the world’s only operational natural hydrogen (or “white hydrogen”) project, located in the village of Bourakébougou. This discovery has transformed the village into a global pioneer for a potentially limitless, carbon-free energy source. Scientific testing in 2012 confirmed the gas is approximately 98% pure hydrogen, along with traces of nitrogen and methane. Unlike fossil fuels, which take millions of years to form, the hydrogen in Mali appears to be spontaneously recharging. Production has continued for over a decade without a significant drop in reservoir pressure. The hydrogen is believed to be generated by serpentinization, a reaction between water and iron-rich rocks (olivine) deep within the Earth’s crust.

The Malian field serves as a “geological benchmark” for global exploration. Following this success, dozens of startups and governments have begun searching for similar “white gold” deposits to meet global net-zero goals.