India achieves breakthrough in green hydrogen production using only solar energy

In a landmark scientific advancement, Indian researchers have developed a scalable, next-generation device capable of producing green hydrogen by splitting water molecules using only
solar energy
—without the need for fossil fuels or costly resources.The breakthrough comes from scientists at the
Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences
(CeNS) in Bengaluru, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
The innovation marks a major step forward in India's
clean energy
mission and the global transition to
sustainable fuels
, the Ministry of Science & Technology said in a statement on Friday. Green hydrogen, considered one of the cleanest fuels, has the potential to decarbonize heavy industries, power vehicles, and store
renewable energy
. However, large-scale and cost-effective production of green hydrogen has long been a technological challenge - until now.
Smart design for a solar-powered future
The research team, led by Dr. Ashutosh K. Singh, has engineered a state-of-the-art silicon-based photoanode using an n-i-p heterojunction architecture, which integrates:
n-type TiO₂Undoped (intrinsic) siliconp-type NiO
This multi-layered configuration enhances light absorption, charge separation, and transport efficiency—key for converting sunlight into hydrogen fuel. The materials were deposited using magnetron sputtering, a scalable, industry-ready fabrication technique.
High performance and durability
The device recorded impressive performance metrics:
Surface photovoltage of 600 mVLow onset potential of ~0.11 VRHEContinuous operation for over 10 hours in alkaline conditions with just a 4% drop in efficiency
The team also scaled the device successfully, with a 25 cm² photoanode demonstrating consistent and effective
solar water-splitting
results.
'This device combines high efficiency, durability, and scalability,' said Dr. Singh. 'It's a significant step toward affordable, solar-driven hydrogen production that could transform our energy landscape.'
Published and peer-recognised
The research has been published in the Journal of Materials Chemistry A by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Scientists believe this innovation could pave the way for decentralized
hydrogen energy systems
, powering homes, factories, and even entire cities using sunlight.
National and global implications
This breakthrough aligns with India's broader mission to lead in green energy technologies under the
National Green Hydrogen Mission
, aiming for carbon neutrality and energy independence.
With further development and support, this indigenous innovation may soon play a vital role in shaping a cleaner, greener, and self-reliant energy future.

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