20 January 2026

Sunlight-driven technology for sustainable chemistry and solar fuels

Through Photons-to-Chemicals (P2C), we develop photocatalytic processes that use sunlight as an energy source

The chemical industry is undergoing a major transition: moving away from fossil feedstocks towards a climate-neutral and economically resilient future. At TNO, we develop technologies that harness sunlight to convert CO₂ and green hydrogen into valuable chemicals and fuels. This approach not only reduces emissions but also strengthens the robustness of the industry and creates new business opportunities.

Harnessing sunlight for green innovation and CO₂ conversion

Through Photons-to-Chemicals (P2C), we develop photocatalytic processes that use sunlight as an energy source. These processes convert CO₂ and green hydrogen into C1 chemicals and synthetic fuels – essential building blocks for the chemical industry. Our technology is flexible and scalable, enabling the use of smaller CO₂ sources. This contributes to a circular economy and reinforces the competitive position of the Netherlands.

Building a resilient and competitive future

By using sunlight as a CO₂-free energy source, we make the chemical industry less dependent on fossil imports. This strengthens the resilience of the value chain, reduces emissions and opens new economic perspectives. Together, we are building an industry that is ready for the future: sustainable, competitive and robust.

Driving the transition with a strategic focus

  • Acceleration towards a green competitive chemical industry; Sunlight is used as CO2-free and renewable energy source to power chemical processes starting from renewable feedstock.
  • Conversion of (biogenic) CO2 with green H2 to sustainable intermediates and products.
  • Adaptive and flexible chemical processes that can be adjusted to the size of small and medium-sized CO2 (point) sources.

Collaborating for impact

The strength of ‘P2C’, Photons-to-Chemicals lies in collaboration. We work closely with universities, research institutes and companies – from innovative start-ups to global players. By combining knowledge and investing jointly in R&D, we accelerate the journey from laboratory to market application. For partners, this means not only technological leadership but also economic opportunities in the rapidly growing market for solar fuels and sustainable chemicals.

Advanced labs for photocatalysis and solar fuels

Our research core team consists of more than 15 experts in research and development in the domain of photo-electro catalysis, techno-economics, and business development. The team has over 25 years of experience in this fieldlab multiple laboratories at two locations:

Projects that make a difference

Our expertise comes to life in projects such as FOTON, where we collaborate with 14 European partners to develop three pilot demonstrators on site: two for the production of green hydrogen production and for green methanol as building blocks for the chemical processes. Both green hydrogen and methanol are relevant as building blocks are not only essential feedstocks for the chemical industry but also important energy carriers.

In addition, we are working on demonstrators that show how sunlight-driven processes can operate continuously and efficiently, even under fluctuating energy supply and variable feedstock conditions.

Source: TNO, press release, 2026-01-13.