He green hydrogen It has become a key clean energy for Spain, which has focused on announcing different projects related to this energy vector. In this context, the Energy Technology Institute (ITE) presented the results of its HysTeC project, one of the most notable advances of which was the development of sustainable electrodes made from leftover forest biomass for use in the PEM (proton exchange membrane). fuel cell type. This advance represents an important step in reducing the carbon footprint of hydrogen production and, at the same time, promotes the circular economy by recovering agroforestry waste.
Thanks to this innovation, the HysTeC project has managed to improve both the efficiency and sustainability of fuel cells, reducing dependence on critical raw materials and replacing them with more environmentally friendly materials. By using biomass in the manufacture of these electrodes, the use of components that generate greenhouse gas emissions is normally avoided, which contributes to much cleaner energy production.
Another key outcome of HysTeC was the implementation of advanced management and control strategies in a renewable hydrogen production pilot plant. These strategies are designed to optimize plant performance and They consider different component degradation scenarios. This will significantly reduce the costs of hydrogen production over the useful life of the installations, thereby improving the economic viability of this renewable technology and strengthening its role in the transition to a more sustainable energy model.
In addition, a test bench has been set up to test and validate the components of the PEM electrolyser, a key technology for the production of green hydrogen. This test bench is essential to guarantee the reliability and sustainability of these systems, which will contribute to their massive adoption on the market.
Since its creation, the HysTeC project has been aligned with the objectives of the European Green Dealwhich aims to accelerate the implementation of clean technologies and decarbonize the European economy. Green hydrogen plays a central role in this strategy, due to its potential to replace fossil fuels and its ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“HysTeC has allowed ITE to advance in the research and development of sustainable technological solutions for the production and use of renewable hydrogen, contributing decisively to the decarbonization of the energy sector,” said María Porcel, head of project.
The success of the HysTeC project was possible thanks to the collaboration with leading companies of the Valencian Community, including Grupo Dominguis Energy Services (GDES), Laurentia Technologies R&D, Hydros Power, AboWind, Regenera Levante and Inmatex. This synergy has enabled progress in the research and development of innovative technological solutions in the field of renewable hydrogen.
The project benefited from the financial support of the Valencian Institute of Business Competitiveness (IVACE) and the European Union, through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), in file IMDEEA/2023/30, which was the key to its success.
