Power-to-X (PtX) is a group of technologies that allow for the conversion of excess or renewable electrical energy into other forms of energy or products. These technologies can be used to store energy, transport energy, or create value-added products.
There are several technologies available for power-to-x, including:
- Power-to-gas: This technology converts excess electrical energy into gaseous fuel, such as hydrogen or methane. This can be done through a process called electrolysis, which uses electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen can then be used as a fuel, or it can be converted into methane through a process called methanation.
- Power-to-liquid: This technology converts excess electrical energy into liquid fuels, such as ethanol or synthetic diesel. This can be done through a process called Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, which uses carbon monoxide and hydrogen to produce a variety of liquid hydrocarbons.
- Power-to-heat: This technology converts excess electrical energy into heat, which can be used for space heating or hot water. This can be done through the use of electric resistance heaters or heat pumps.
- Power-to-chemicals: This technology converts excess electrical energy into chemical products, such as ammonia or methanol. This can be done through a process called electrochemical reduction, which uses electricity to reduce chemical compounds.
- Power-to-materials: This technology converts excess electrical energy into materials, such as steel or concrete. This can be done through a process called direct reduction, which uses electricity to reduce iron ore into iron.