NEREUS – Next-Generation Scalable AEM Electrolyzers as Sustainable Hydrogen Production System

The expansion of the hydrogen economy requires electrolysis systems that combine high efficiency, a long service life and economic manufacturability. This is precisely where NEREUS comes in: The project is developing AEM electrolysers as a promising technology for the sustainable production of green hydrogen. The focus is on the further development of low-temperature water electrolysis into systems that are both powerful and cost-efficient.

A central approach is the use of platinum group metal-free electrodes in combination with advanced membranes and precisely designed components. The aim is to reduce material costs and at the same time create the technological basis for robust, industry-oriented electrolysis systems.

The system developed in the project is designed for direct DC-DC coupling with renewable energy sources and can therefore also be used in off-grid operation with low energy losses. At the same time, it can support grid-supporting functions such as frequency and voltage regulation. NEREUS thus contributes to both energy autonomy and grid stability.

In addition to system development, reliability, standardisation and commercialisation also play a central role. The project therefore integrates advanced diagnostic tools and machine learning models in order to detect degradation mechanisms at an early stage and improve the service life of the systems. At the same time, regulatory requirements and certification paths are already taken into account in the early project phases. NEREUS is thus creating important prerequisites for safe, interoperable and marketable AEM electrolysers in the European energy transformation.