The ECO2Fuel project is pioneering a prototype direct, electrochemical CO2 conversion system that produces sustainable liquid e-fuels and chemicals like methanol and ethanol. The ultimate goal is to scale up the system to create the world’s first low-temperature 1MW CO2 electrolyzer by 2026. This innovative system operates by electrocatalytically converting CO2 in a single-step process using water and renewable electricity, without the need for hydrogen, all while maintaining low temperatures and pressures.
Driven by the ambitious targets of the European Green Deal for climate neutrality by 2050, including a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, the ECO2Fuel project is crucial for advancing carbon capture and utilization technologies. Funded under the Horizon Europe program, the project team has developed one of the world’s largest CO2 electrolyzers with a total active area of 3.75 m², exceeding current industry standards. The system’s unique design allows for the reuse of gases generated at the negative electrode, enhancing the conversion of CO2 into valuable products.
The 50kW stack electrolyzer is currently undergoing testing at the VITO site in Belgium to assess its efficiency and stability. The project’s key objective is to scale up the system and test it at a 1MW scale on the RWE site in Germany by 2026. In collaboration with various businesses and research institutions, including DLR, RWE, and De Nora, the ECO2Fuel project aims to revolutionize CO2 conversion technology and contribute to a more sustainable future.
