Imagine a tiny biological solar panel that turns sunlight and water into hydrogen fuel. Instead of using expensive metals like platinum, this system uses specially designed bacteria that act like a funnel, directing all their energy toward fuel production. To make it even more profitable, these bacteria also produce a high-value red pigment used in skincare and health supplements.
Current green hydrogen production relies on expensive electrolysis and critical raw materials. Additionally, biological hydrogen production is typically inefficient and inhibited by oxygen.
A 1,300-litre photobioreactor and engineered cyanobacteria strains capable of self-assembling catalysts for hydrogen production.
If you are a hydrogen producer dealing with high electricity costs for electrolysis — this project developed a biological route that could lower production costs to 5€/Kg of H2. It removes the need for critical raw materials and toxic processes.
If you are a cosmetics company dealing with the high cost of sourcing astaxanthin — this project developed a dual-production system where the bacteria produce this antioxidant pigment alongside hydrogen. This makes the overall biological process more economically viable.
If you are a facility manager dealing with nutrient-rich wastewater disposal — this project developed engineered strains that can grow in wastewater to produce green fuel. This turns a waste stream into a source of energy and value.
Theoretical estimates suggest production costs could be as low as 5€/Kg of H2.
The project aims to validate the technology in a custom-designed photobioreactor scaling up to 1,300 litres.
Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not provided, but the project involves a consortium of 6 partners including 2 SMEs.
No, it uses custom-designed [FeFe] hydrogenase enzymes to avoid the need for expensive and rare metals like platinum.
Yes, the proof-of-concept production is intended to be located in a hydrogen industrial stakeholder to ensure large-scale relevance.
The consortium is well-balanced for technology transfer, consisting of 6 partners across 5 countries. With a 33% industry ratio (including 2 SMEs), there is a clear bridge between the 4 research/university entities and commercial application, specifically targeting industrial hydrogen stakeholders.
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