EERE funds research at the University of Colorado–Boulder for a hydrogen production technology that uses solar energy to produce hydrogen from water. The thermochemical process being used has minimal water requirements, in contrast to conventional central power plants using nuclear reactors or coal-fired boilers, which typically need to be sited near a significant source of water. In addition, the process does not produce waste water, ash, waste heat, or greenhouse emissions as conventional power stations do, so no waste water treatment, gas capture and sequestration, or other remediation is needed. Because the process employs two-step, non-volatile, metal-oxide cycles, it avoids efficiency losses that are associated with product recombination and temperature quenching or in an electrolysis step. The conversion of solar radiation into chemical fuel, such as hydrogen, is an engineering challenge; however, unlike solar-derived electricity or heat, hydrogen can be stored and transported easily and efficiently—making it suitable for vehicles and other portable applications.
Positive Impact
Highly efficient hydrogen production technology with minimal water requirements.
Locations
Boulder, Colorado
Partners
University of Colorado–Boulder
EERE Investment
$1.5 million
Clean Energy Sector
The Fuel Cell Technologies Office (FCTO) conducts comprehensive efforts to overcome the technological, economic, and institutional barriers to the widespread commercialization of hydrogen and fuel cells.
The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) success stories highlight the positive impact of its work with businesses, industry partners, universities, research labs, and other entities.