Solar panel that transforms solar energy into hydrogen, generating up to 250 liters per day: an innovation that promises to revolutionize the production of sustainable energy in homes

Solhyd hydrogen solar panels: a revolution in renewable energy. Produce green hydrogen and contribute to a more sustainable future with less dependence on fossil fuels

After years of research and development, Belgian start-up Solhyd is ready to revolutionize the renewable energy sector with its new hydrogen-producing solar panel. This technology promises to transform the way hydrogen is generated and used, especially in a context where sustainability and reduction of carbon emissions are priority.

Solhyd: Hydrogen Solar Power Panels

Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe. Composed of a single electron and a single proton, it has been used for decades in industries such as agri-food, metallurgical and chemical industries. However, hydrogen production has largely depended on fossil fuels, representing 95% of total production, according to data from Futura. To change this trend, Solhyd has developed an innovative solar panel that generates green hydrogen using exclusively solar energy.

Os Solhyd panels are unique in their class, as they produce gaseous hydrogen at low pressure (between 300 and 500 millibars), using energy from the sun. Unlike conventional photovoltaic panels that generate electricity, these panels are connected by gas pipes. Each panel can produce approximately 250 liters of hydrogen per day, with an efficiency of 15%. This green hydrogen can be used directly, transported through pipes or stored locally at high pressures after compression.

According to Jan Rongé, CEO of Solhyd, a roof with 20 Solhyd panels could generate between 120 and 240 kilograms of hydrogen per year, equivalent to 4 to 8 megawatt-hours (MWh) of hydrogen energy.

Testing and adaptability

Before launching full-scale production, Solhyd carried out multiple tests in different climates around the world, including Africa, with very promising results. In northwestern Europe, a panel can produce around 6 kilograms of hydrogen per year, while in sunnier regions, this number can reach 12 kilograms annually. Additionally, Solhyd is committed to continuous risk assessment and the implementation of internal quality control measures to speed up and facilitate the production process. Recently, the start-up manufactured a batch of 10 panels for testing in Belgium.

Scaling production

Solhyd has ambitious plans to scale production of its hydrogen solar panels to the megawatt level by 2026. The company is working on creating a network of partners, suppliers and systems integrators to achieve this goal. With funding of 6 million euros obtained from a consortium of Flemish investors, Solhyd proposes to offer a “plug-and-play” solution for industries such as steel and chemicals, as well as for small and medium-sized companies seeking green hydrogen at affordable prices.

Compatibility and future

Solhyd panels operate at very low pressure and are compatible with most photovoltaic modules available on the market. Currently, the company focuses on mono PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) panels, but plans to develop tandem solar panels (perovskite/silicon) in the future.

Solhyd is positioned to play a crucial role in the transition to a green hydrogen economy. With its innovative hydrogen solar panel technology, the start-up not only seeks to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, but also provide a clean and sustainable energy source that can be adopted globally.

Solhyd's vision to integrate large-scale green hydrogen production into the energy sector is a promising sign for the future of renewable energy, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable, carbon-free planet.

More information: solhyd.eu