EU's SUPREME Project Aims to Slash Green Hydrogen Costs by 2028
A new EU-funded project, SUPREME, is addressing two significant challenges in green hydrogen production: high costs and harmful chemicals. This initiative aims to reduce dependence on expensive iridium and eliminate 'forever chemicals' from electrolysis technology. Researchers across Europe are collaborating to make the process cleaner and more affordable by 2028.
Green hydrogen, produced through water splitting, provides a carbon-neutral alternative to fossil fuels. However, current methods rely on proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis, which uses PFAS—so-called 'forever chemicals'—and rare metals like iridium. These factors contribute to high costs and environmental concerns.
The SUPREME project, led by the University of Southern Denmark with support from TU Graz, is developing PFAS-free membranes and reducing iridium use by up to 75%. Turkey's TUBITAK is engineering new microporous membranes, while Germany's Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems is producing advanced electrode assemblies. Norway's Element One Energy AS is also contributing with a rotating electrolyser design to enhance efficiency.
Beyond technology, the project aligns with Europe's energy transition goals. By 2028, the team plans to deliver market-ready solutions for industries like PEM electrolysis. The innovations could lower production costs and eliminate harmful chemicals, making green hydrogen more sustainable.
If successful, SUPREME's advancements will reduce iridium dependency and remove PFAS from hydrogen production. The project's findings are expected to reach the market within five years, supporting Europe's push for cleaner energy. The collaboration also strengthens cross-border research efforts in climate technology.