What is the Elhytec Project?
Elhytec is shaking up the energy storage game with its innovative hydrogen storage solution designed to meet growing energy autonomy needs. Born from a breakthrough and patented technology, this start-up, founded by two experts with deep technological and industrial know-how, focuses on valorizing intermittent carbon-free electricity. The core idea? Harness the flexibility of hydrogen as an energy vector without the usual headaches of gas or liquid storage. In simple terms, Elhytec’s technology transforms surplus renewable energy into hydrogen, storing it safely and economically for use whenever needed—whether that’s electricity, heat, or direct hydrogen applications.
Main Benefits of Elhytec’s Technology
Here’s why Elhytec stands out:
- Competitiveness: Low capital expenditure thanks to a device that skips ionic or gaseous separators, no self-discharge for long-duration storage (over 12 hours!), and hydrogen generation without additional energy input—all while using recycled materials.
- Safety: The system is simple, robust, and safe. It stores energy without gas accumulation or pressure, can be buried, and doesn’t fall under strict regulations like Seveso.
- Durability: Operates in a closed cycle with an inorganic solution, meaning zero emissions and long-lasting performance.
- Flexibility: Electrical recharge via zinc electrolysis works smoothly despite intermittent power or stop-and-go conditions.
Context and Challenges in Energy Autonomy
The energy transition is changing everything—how energy is produced, stored, and consumed. Renewable resources are variable, and ensuring continuous energy supply is becoming more complex. That’s why energy autonomy needs are multiplying: think backup power, isolated sites, microgrids, local mobility, and decentralized industrial processes. Elhytec’s solution fits perfectly in this evolving landscape, offering a way to store energy long-term and release it on demand, no matter the conditions.
Electric Autonomy for Isolated Sites
In places like mountain shelters, measurement stations, or telecom sites, electricity often relies solely on solar panels paired with short-duration batteries. But what happens when the sun doesn’t shine for days? That’s where Elhytec’s hydrogen storage shines—literally. By converting photovoltaic surpluses into hydrogen, it guarantees energy supply 365 days a year. This means these isolated spots can stay powered without interruption, overcoming the limits of traditional battery storage.
Local Hydrogen: Tackling Logistical and Autonomy Challenges
Hydrogen is a versatile energy vector connecting electricity, heat, and gas. Producing and storing hydrogen locally simplifies logistics and opens doors to new applications. For example, in uses like balloon inflation, on-site hydrogen solutions can help phase out pressurized hydrogen or helium bottles. Elhytec’s approach makes hydrogen more accessible and practical, reducing reliance on complex supply chains and enhancing energy independence.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Linked to Elhytec
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – by promoting renewable energy storage and use.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – through breakthrough energy storage technology.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – enabling energy autonomy for isolated and decentralized sites.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – via recyclable materials and closed-cycle processes.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by supporting the energy transition and reducing emissions.
Innovative Electrochemical Cycle and Design
At the heart of Elhytec’s technology is a clever electrochemical cycle based on zinc, a non-strategic and recyclable metal with a stable price. The process involves four key steps: water electrolysis using zinc, hydrogen production, energy storage, and then returning to the initial state to start the cycle anew. What’s really cool is how the design tackles common issues—like eliminating dendrite formation, a major hurdle in zinc storage systems—and uses industrial catalysts for efficient hydrogen generation. Plus, the system’s modular design allows decoupled sizing of storage capacity, input power, and output power, making it adaptable to various needs. It’s safe, scalable, and ready for industrial deployment.
