Bloom Energy and Heliogen unveiled their plans to produce green hydrogen using only concentrated solar power and water, further accelerating the world’s progress toward a zero-carbon future.

By combining near 24/7 carbon-free power and steam, generated by Heliogen’s Sunlight Refinery solar power generation system, with Bloom Energy’s solid oxide electrolyzer, the companies will produce green hydrogen that can replace fossil-derived fuels in commercial and industrial applications. Bloom Energy’s electrolyzers operating on steam are nearly 30% more efficient than low-temperature electrolyzers, such as PEM and alkaline. The complementary technologies make for economically viable green hydrogen production, on par with hydrogen produced from photovoltaic solar generation.

“We developed our AI-powered Sunlight Refinery knowing that green hydrogen is a key element in decarbonizing global transport,” said Bill Gross, founder and CEO, Heliogen. “By coupling our technology with Bloom Energy’s electrolyzers, we can produce this crucially important fuel at an attractive price point. We will further enhance our Sunlight Refinery’s technology with the addition of Bloom Energy’s market-leading technology, and we have found a committed and invaluable partner in our mission to help decarbonize the entire global economy.”

The companies’ first integrated solution is intended to be deployed at Heliogen’s facility in Lancaster, California by the end of 2021.