SUN2X-SET
SUNER-C
Experts from research, industry and policymaking gathered in Brussels on 19–20 October 2026 to launch the SUN2X-SET Working Groups and advance a European Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) and Technological Roadmap for Direct Solar Fuels (DSF).
The two-day workshop brought together the SUN2X-SET community to exchange expertise, identify research and innovation priorities, and strengthen collaboration towards accelerating the development and deployment of Direct Solar Fuels in Europe.
From scientific opportunities to technological innovation
The first day set the scene with contributions from Gabriele Gaffuri (EERA), SUN2X-SET Project Coordinator; Beatrice Coda (European Commission, DG RTD), who highlighted the role of DSF in hard-to-electrify sectors such as industry, aviation and maritime transport; Bill Tumas (National Laboratory of the Rockies, USA), who explored the scientific opportunities for DSF; and Thomas Schleker (European Commission), who outlined the European policy context.
Muriel Matheron (CEA) introduced the four Working Groups, covering photosynthetic devices, bio-based approaches, solar thermal conversion, and sustainable CO₂ sourcing. Participants then joined parallel breakout sessions to identify research gaps, discuss challenges and define priorities.
On the second day, Joanna Kargul (University of Warsaw) presented “Solar Fuels and Chemicals Technologies: A Roadmap to Innovation”, setting the stage for further discussions on technological development and future research directions.
The programme also showcased innovative projects and technologies, including:
EASI Fuel – “Fuel from the Sun: Artificial Photosynthesis”, presented by Muriel Matheron (CEA), a finalist of the EIC Horizon Prize.
Integrated photovoltaic (photo)electrodes for direct solar fuel production, presented by Salvador Eslava (Imperial College London).
S2B: Solar-to-Butanol Conversion in Microbial Cell Factories, presented by Yagut Allahverdiyeva-Rinne (University of Turku).
EZYCELL®, an enzymatic solution for the fuel-cell genset market, introduced by Lionel Ventelon (H2WIN).
These contributions highlighted the diversity of approaches advancing solar-driven fuels and created opportunities to exchange expertise and strengthen partnerships.
Building a shared European roadmap
The workshop laid the foundations for a collaborative roadmapping process with several key ambitions:
Identifying research and innovation priorities, milestones and pathways for DSF development and scale-up.
Mapping stakeholder needs, challenges and barriers, and defining key actions.
Aligning DSF priorities with the SET Plan and supporting EU objectives under the Green Deal Industrial Plan, the Net-Zero Industry Act and the European Research Area.
Defining indicators and key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress towards energy, climate and transport objectives.
Closing the workshop, Gabriele Gaffuri encouraged participants to remain actively engaged in the Working Groups as the roadmapping process moves forward.
The discussions in Brussels marked an important step towards translating scientific progress into shared priorities and actionable pathways for Direct Solar Fuels research, innovation and deployment across Europe.
The journey continues! Learn more about SUN2X-SET and find out how to join the Working Groups: Roadmap Working Groups.