Mission
Develop, integrate, and evaluate advanced energy conversion and storage solutions—based on hydrogen and post-Li-ion batteries—to improve the manageability of renewable energy generation in the Community of Madrid. The project aims to demonstrate, through a case study of an “energy island” powered by a hybrid wind-solar park, that it is possible to reduce the cost of electricity and decrease dependence on fossil fuel backups by combining systems modeling, materials development, electrochemical devices, and techno-economic and environmental analyses.
Vision
To make the Community of Madrid a leader in integrating renewable energy with hybrid storage systems based on hydrogen and new batteries, capable of providing flexibility and security of supply without relying on fossil fuels. With a 2030–2050 horizon, the aim is a cleaner, more resilient, and more affordable grid, aligned with the Madrid Research and Innovation Strategy 2030, the Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3), and the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy).
The electricity system that supplies most of Madrid's population still relies on a combination of renewable and conventional sources. Despite the increase in solar and wind power installations, the intermittency of these resources necessitates the maintenance of backup power plants based on fossil fuels, which increases electricity bills and perpetuates emissions incompatible with climate and air quality objectives.
In this context, the SOLENER-CM R&D program seeks solutions for the energy system of the Community of Madrid by improving the manageability of a hybrid wind-solar renewable energy park coupled with advanced energy conversion and storage systems. The project evaluates, using databases and simulation tools, the extent to which it is possible to reduce energy costs and increase the penetration of renewables by integrating storage technologies—advanced batteries and hydrogen systems—in a representative case study located in the region.
The overall objective is to develop and integrate various technologies that will improve energy management and independence for the Community of Madrid. To this end, SOLENER-CM is structured around four main scientific and technical objectives. Objective 1 studies the integration of renewable energy storage systems for a group of consumers through an “energy island” powered by a hybrid wind-solar solar farm. Three scenarios are analyzed: a renewable energy farm with backup from diesel generators; a system where fossil fuel backup is replaced by lithium-ion battery banks; and a third scenario with advanced storage that combines post-Li-ion batteries and hydrogen systems developed within the project itself. For each case, the levelized cost of electricity is calculated, and the impacts are quantified through life cycle assessments, systematically comparing fossil fuel-based solutions with innovative storage alternatives.
Objective 2 focuses on the development of novel hydrogen-powered membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs and AEMFCs) and reversible fuel cells capable of operating as an electrical generator or in electrolysis mode. Low-cost, highly stable hybrid proton-anion exchange membranes, advanced catalytic layers, and novel MEA assembly procedures are designed and synthesized. Low-temperature stacks are fabricated from these components to serve as demonstrators and provide realistic data for subsequent integration into system models.
Objective 3 addresses hydrogen production by electrolysis using alternative resources, such as wastewater containing nitrogen compounds or seawater. Polymeric and hybrid anion exchange electrolytes and electrodes based on non-noble metals, primarily nickel and its alloys, with high stability against corrosion and poisoning, are being developed. Using these materials, an optimized electrolysis cell is designed, manufactured, and tested to produce green hydrogen sustainably, reducing pressure on drinking water supplies and increasing the flexibility of the energy system.
Objective 4 focuses on the development of advanced batteries beyond lithium-ion. Solid-state batteries using metallic lithium and ceramic electrolytes modified with glass-ceramic oxides are being investigated, aiming for high energy densities and greater safety. In parallel, electrode materials for sodium-ion and potassium-ion batteries are being developed, prioritizing the abundance and sustainability of raw materials over dependence on critical elements. Prototypes are validated in button cells and bagged cells, and the data from these tests feeds into the integration models for Objective 1.
The project methodology combines fundamental research in materials and devices with advanced energy system modeling, techno-economic analysis, and environmental assessment. A large and complementary consortium—CSIC, CIEMAT, INTA, IMDEA Energía, UCM, and UPM—works in a coordinated manner on the various lines of research related to fuel cells, electrolyzers, batteries, and integrated systems. SOLENER-CM aligns with the Madrid Research and Innovation Strategy 2030, the Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3), and European decarbonisation programs, while also promoting the training of young researchers and gender equality. Overall, the project aims to offer concrete solutions to reduce energy costs in the Community of Madrid and increase the penetration of renewables without fossil fuel backing, using the "energy island" scenario as an integrating testbed that brings the future of a sustainable energy system closer to the present in Madrid.
