Solar fuels in the European Union

Solar fuel technologies, also known as solar-to-X or artificial photosynthesis technologies, convert solar energy directly into chemical energy in the form of liquids or gases. Fuels and chemicals directly from sunlight are at an early stage of development, however, they bare the promise to enable a decentralized energy and production in the long-term. Moreover, in the longer term, conversion of carbon dioxide into long-lasting materials can help achieve a CO2-neutral circular economy. The EU has a strong presence in solar fuel research and has increased its budget for this area, as well as supporting collaboration and networking initiatives for research and innovation.