Hydrostar case study

Working with Low Carbon Devon

Hydrogen ORE- High-efficiency reversible solid oxide cells for the integration of offshore renewable energy using hydrogen

During the Low Carbon Devon project, the project's Industrial Research Fellows have collaborated with Devon enterprises, sharing their knowledge and expertise.

Dr Jonathan Bloor was the Power Electronics Industrial Research Fellow and he took his expertise in materials science and engineering to drive innovation in green hydrogen electrolysis with Devon-based enterprise Hydrostar.

The transition to net zero is a complex journey and green hydrogen, produced with renewable energy, is emerging as a critical carbon-neutral fuel. It can be used in a range of applications including transportation and energy storage systems. In particular, it is recognised as a good solution for difficult-to-decarbonise activities such as heavy industry and domestic and industrial heat.

The use of green hydrogen in the electricity sector can help to balance the grid by storing excess renewable energy during times of low demand, which can be used during peak periods. The increasing demand for decarbonisation, coupled with advancements in technology and the declining cost of renewable energy, is accelerating the growth of green hydrogen.

The benefits of green hydrogen are clear, but the challenge has always been producing it in a cost-effective and sustainable way. University of Plymouth researcher, Jonathan Bloor, has supported Hydrostar with the development of a novel electrolyser design to produce green hydrogen more efficiently and cost-effectively than other methods.

Green hydrogen is produced through the process of electrolysis. This process involves splitting water molecules into their component parts of hydrogen and oxygen, using an electrical current produced by renewable energy sources.

The Devon-based company specialises in producing green hydrogen through a cleaner electrolysis process than traditional methods of production. Their technology uses a membrane-less based system that allows for greater control over the electrolysis process, resulting in good yields of hydrogen and lower energy consumption from a variety of water qualities. This means that Hydrostar's electrolyser can produce green hydrogen with fewer water constraints, including the use of waste water, making it a more sustainable and cost-effective option.

Jonathan worked closely with Hydrostar's engineers to design and test new components. The collaboration involved developing electrolyte patents as well as a focus on the development of new electrolyser modular systems. The use of modular systems allows for greater flexibility and scalability, enabling the technology to be deployed in a range of settings, from small-scale operations to large industrial facilities. This approach also enables easier maintenance and upgrades, reducing downtime and costs.

The work undertaken within this research project has enabled Hydrostar to incorporate improved technologies into the new electrolyser. The company expect these developments to have significant implications for the future of hydrogen production, supporting the journey to net zero.

Read about Devon company Ecomotus who worked with Low Carbon Devon on the development of hydrogen injection technology in the Maritime sector – Hydrogen injectors.

The Low Carbon Devon project was a five-year European Regional Development Fund project held at the University of Plymouth supporting Devon businesses to transition to the low carbon economy closing in mid-2023.

The project served as a catalyst for low carbon economic growth in Devon via the Future Shift internship programme, a series of free events and by connecting enterprises with expertise within the University of Plymouth.

The project collaborated with over 130 innovative Devon enterprises who are developing sustainable practices and securing opportunities in the low carbon economy.

To find out more about the University of Plymouth's business services visit Enterprise Solutions.