THE PROJECT

Context

The transition to a sustainable energy system requires the development of new technologies for the production of clean fuels. Hydrogen is widely recognized as a key energy carrier for decarbonization, but its current production is still largely dependent on fossil fuels or on electricity that is not fully renewable.

Even when hydrogen is produced via water electrolysis, its sustainability depends on the electricity mix, which in Europe is still far from being entirely based on renewable sources.

Scientific rationale

SOLE-H2 explores an alternative approach based on the direct use of solar radiation to produce hydrogen from water, avoiding the intermediate conversion into electricity.

The project focuses on the development of advanced molecular and supramolecular systems—organic, inorganic, and hybrid—capable of absorbing solar light and driving chemical reactions for hydrogen production.

In addition, biohybrid approaches are investigated to enable the conversion of waste streams, such as wastewater and lignocellulosic biomass, into valuable energy carriers.

Innovation

The innovative aspect of SOLE-H2 lies in replacing the conventional two-step process (electricity generation + electrolysis) with a single, direct solar-to-hydrogen pathway.

This approach enables:

• simplified system design

• reduced energy losses

• use of abundant and low-cost materials

• elimination of critical raw materials

Furthermore, SOLE-H2 promotes the development of decentralized and scalable systems, capable of operating without external energy inputs other than sunlight and water.

This opens the way to hydrogen production in a wide range of contexts, from small-scale applications to medium-sized systems, including remote or emergency scenarios.

👉 Versione italiana disponibile
https://sites.google.com/unimib.it/soleh2/il-progetto