Spanish research teams advance clean hydrogen production technologies

Researchers at the Universitat Politècnica de València and the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas have demonstrated a microwave‑driven process that converts methane into hydrogen and solid carbon with up to 80 % conversion at about 500 °C, cutting energy use and eliminating direct CO₂ emissions. The system operates at lower temperatures than conventional methods, promising lower operating costs and higher efficiency.

In parallel, the technology centre Eurecat, together with partners from the HACDOS project, has explored solar‑driven photocatalytic hydrogen generation from wastewater. Pilot solar panels of 1 m² and 10 m² were installed at the Granollers wastewater treatment plant, confirming the concept’s feasibility even though hydrogen yields remain modest. Both initiatives aim to make hydrogen production more sustainable by coupling it with renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.