The Europe-based STELAH project has marked a strong first year by delivering significant progress in the development of next-generation alkaline electrolysis technologies for renewable hydrogen production. By moving away from scarce and critical materials such as platinum-based derivatives, the project is focusing on more accessible alternatives that can reduce costs while maintaining high performance. This approach is seen as crucial for scaling green hydrogen technologies to meet future industrial demand.

Led from Spain, by Técnicas Reunidas in collaboration with Matteco, the Technological Institute for Children’s Products and Leisure and the University of Valencia, the consortium is advancing new catalysts, electrodes and stack configurations. Together, these innovations are designed to improve efficiency, durability and overall system performance. The work aims to close the gap between laboratory research and commercial deployment, accelerating the availability of market-ready electrolysers.

From laboratory innovation to industrial application

A central focus of the STELAH project is the development and validation of high-performance electrodes for alkaline electrolysis. This includes both anode and cathode components, as well as optimised stack designs that outperform existing commercial alkaline electrolysis technologies. The enhanced designs are engineered to deliver higher efficiency and better operational stability, supporting long-term industrial use.

Matteco has played a key role in developing advanced catalytic material combinations for both anode and cathode compositions. These formulations have been extensively characterised and validated by the University of Valencia. The results indicate strong potential for improved durability, higher performance and greater scalability, all of which are essential for widespread adoption in industrial hydrogen production.

By strengthening electrolyser performance while reducing dependence on scarce materials, the project contributes to lowering the overall cost of green hydrogen. This is particularly important for hard-to-decarbonise sectors such as heavy industry and long-distance transport, where hydrogen is expected to play a major role in reducing emissions.

The consortium’s work under the STELAH project is laying the technical foundation for a new generation of robust and cost-effective electrolysers. By accelerating the transition from experimental validation to industrial deployment, the project supports broader decarbonisation efforts and reinforces green hydrogen’s position as a competitive and sustainable energy carrier for the future.

Source: 

https://interestingengineering.com/energy/scalable-electrolyzers-advance-green-hydrogen-production