The European Union has allocated €8 million through Horizon Europe for two innovative projects, SUN-PERFORM and Solar to Butanol (S2B), focusing on converting solar energy into liquid fuels for hard-to-electrify sectors.
SUN-PERFORM aims to enhance solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency by integrating genetically engineered microalgae with nanocrystals, offering sustainable fuel alternatives in industries like aviation.
SUN-PERFORM includes real-world testing sites in the Netherlands and Morocco to assess the technology's efficacy under varying solar intensity conditions.
Solar to Butanol (S2B) project led by Turun yliopisto-UTU in Finland focuses on producing butanol from atmospheric CO₂ and solar energy using genetically engineered microbes and advanced materials.
Both projects involve esteemed research bodies and industry leaders across Europe, striving to advance renewable fuel technologies and achieve a fossil-free future.
SUN-PERFORM and S2B aim to reach a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4, showcasing the feasibility of their technologies in operational environments.
These initiatives symbolize Europe's commitment to clean energy production, sustainability, and economic growth through innovative research investments in solar fuel technologies.
By combining interdisciplinary research and cross-border collaboration, SUN-PERFORM and S2B represent a transformative approach towards a sustainable energy future, aligning with EU's climate strategy.
The projects, set to deliver key demonstration results by 2028, signify a significant step forward in energy technology development, emphasizing Europe's dedication to scientific excellence.
Through pioneering projects like SUN-PERFORM and Solar to Butanol, Europe aims to revolutionize liquid fuels production from solar energy, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable energy landscape.
These initiatives not only tackle climate change but also showcase the potential of innovative research investments in driving breakthrough advancements towards a greener future.