Leading experts, researchers and policymakers convened in Paris from February 12 to 14 for a series of discussions on the future of solar fuels and chemicals. Organised by the SUNER-C project and the SUNERGY community, the events explored technological advancements, funding opportunities and strategic pathways for sustainable energy solutions.
Strategic planning at the 6th SUNER-C Consortium Meeting
On February 12, the SUNER-C partners met at Sorbonne Université for the 6th Consortium Meeting, where they reviewed project progress and outlined long-term goals.
A highlight was a presentation by Philippe Schild (DG-RTD, European Commission), who explained how the planning of the next Horizon Europe’s 2026-27 Work Programme is advancing and its alignment with EU priorities.
The first day concluded with a session focused on defining clear objectives for scaling solar fuel technologies as part of the SUNERGY Blueprint. This work set the stage for the upcoming EIC – SUNERGY Joint Roadmapping event in Brussels on March 26th – 27th, where stakeholders will refine strategies for advancing solar fuels and chemicals.
Multi-perspective dialogue on solar fuels innovation
The next day, the Joint SUNERGY/REFINE Workshop was also held at Sorbonne Université. This practical session had the title: “Innovating Solar Fuels: A Multi-Perspective Discussion on Overcoming Barriers and Creating Pathways to Sustainable Energy Solutions.”
The event explored the sustainable production of isobutanol through artificial photosynthesis, an innovative approach currently being investigated by the REFINE EU project. The discussions extended beyond technology, addressing public acceptance, risk perception and economic feasibility. Participants engaged in an interactive “World Café” methodology, which enhanced the dialogue between academic scientists, engineers, policymakers and industry stakeholders.
Global collaboration at IEA’s headquarters
The final event, held on February 14 at the International Energy Agency (IEA), was a joint workshop between IEA Hydrogen TCP, Mission Innovation and SUNER-C.
The discussions centered on the direct use of sunlight to produce hydrogen and carbon-based molecules. Paul Lucchese from IEA Hydrogen TCP, Philippe Schild representing Mission Innovation and Frédéric Chandezon representing SUNER-C opened the session.
The first part of the day featured presentations from Bill Tumas (NREL/Mission Innovation), Ann Magnuson (Uppsala University/SUNER-C), and Carina Faber (EIC). They provided a broad perspective on solar fuels, emphasizing their role in future energy systems. Speakers also introduced the SUNER-C agenda, outlining its vision for a climate-neutral future and explored solar fuel technologies and their industrial applications.
Amalia Pizarro (IEA) followed with a presentation on “Net-Zero & Sunlight to X,” highlighting the role of solar fuels in achieving global climate goals.
The core of the event was structured around three key panel discussions tackling critical challenges in solar fuel research and application:
- Integration of Solar Fuels into Industrial and Energy Systems – Experts debated the viability of scaling solar fuels for widespread adoption. This pannel was moderated by Muriel Matheron (CEA) and Joachim John (Imec).
- Business Models and Competitiveness – Led by Philippe Schild (Mission Innovation, European Commission) and Alberto Giaconia (ENEA), panelists examined the economic landscape of hydrogen production versus carbon-based fuels.
- Accelerating Research and Innovation (R&I) through International Collaboration – Discussions highlighted ways to fast-track innovation through cross-border cooperation. This last pannel was Moderated by Ann Magnuson (Uppsala University) & Teo Martin (ENEA).
The workshop concluded with a summary on the challenges and opportunities in solar-driven fuel innovation. Experts emphasized the importance of continued collaboration, investment in research and policy support to accelerate the development of solar fuel technologies.
With a day full of insights and dialogue, the event at IEA reinforced the growing significance of solar fuels in shaping a sustainable energy future.