Syngas, a mixture of H2 and CO, is an important intermediate product in the chemical industry, widely used for producing methanol, fuels, and other chemicals. Traditionally, syngas is derived from natural gas via methane reforming, a process that emits 1.5 to 1.8 kg CO2 per kg of syngas, significantly contributing to global warming. Around 70% of these emissions stem from process-related CO2 released during reforming, while an additional 25% of natural gas consumption is used to fuel the endothermic reaction. SOMMER aims to tackle the required transition by developing and demonstrating a novel carbon-neutral syngas production path that integrates concentrated solar energy directly into the process. At the core of SOMMER’s approach lies a solar-powered catalytic membrane reactor that converts H2O and CO2, e.g. captured from high-emission industries or direct air capture, into syngas in a one-step thermochemical process. This eliminates the need for fossil-based energy and replaces natural gas feedstock with renewable CO2. Key outcomes include the experimental demonstration of this innovative technology, the development of high-performance, cost-effective catalytic membranes, and advancements in membrane manufacturing through slip-casting and additive manufacturing. Additionally, SOMMER aims to enhance operational flexibility by enabling two modes: (I) a purely solar-driven process at 1500°C and (II) a biogas-supported approach at 900°C to ensure continuous, round-the-clock operation regardless of sunlight availability. Beyond technology demonstration, SOMMER will assess the technological, ecological, and economic potential of solar syngas production, contributing to a detailed roadmap for commercialization. By bridging cutting-edge research with industrial application, SOMMER aims to set the foundation for a sustainable, scalable, and economically viable alternative to conventional syngas production, significantly reducing carbon emissions in the chemical industry. It approaches supports the EU’s climate mitigation targets and fosters a circular carbon economy, making it a practical solution especially in regions with high solar availability and industrial CO2 emissions.
