More efficient, scalable electrolyzers advance green hydrogen production

The STELAH project, in its first year, has made significant strides in developing next-generation alkaline electrolysis technologies to enhance renewable hydrogen production. Led by Tecnicas Reunidas with partners Matteco, AIJU, and the University of Valencia, the consortium has focused on creating advanced catalysts, electrodes, and stack configurations that improve efficiency, durability, and scalability. Notably, Matteco developed new catalytic materials for both anode and cathode components that avoid scarce platinum-based materials, instead using more accessible alternatives with higher electrochemical activity and stability. These materials have been validated under representative operating conditions and scaled to the project’s targeted sizes, demonstrating strong potential for industrial deployment. Building on these promising results, the project is now moving toward integrating the optimized materials into full-size electrolyzer prototypes and modular stacks, aiming to bring the technology closer to commercial application. Supported by approximately $1 million in public funding from the Valencian Innovation Agency and the EU’s FEDER program, the initiative combines expertise in materials