The three-step value chain

Step 1: Green methanol synthesis

Renewable energy, captured CO₂ and green hydrogen are combined to produce green methanol value chain . This is the feedstock for the entire value chain. The methanol synthesis step is well-aligned with commercially proven technology (TRL 8–9 at industrial scale).

Step 2: Methanol-to-syngas (TCES charge)

Methanol is decomposed into syngas, a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, using renewable heat. This endothermic reaction simultaneously stores renewable energy as thermochemical heat. The stored syngas can be held until needed, decoupling fuel production from wind and solar intermittency.

Step 3a: Syngas-to-methane (TCES discharge)

Through methanation, syngas is converted to synthetic natural gas, releasing high-temperature heat. The produced methane can be used in existing natural gas infrastructure or injected into the gas grid.

Step 3b: Syngas-to-DME (TCES discharge)

Alternatively, syngas is converted to dimethyl ether (DME), a clean-burning renewable diesel alternative suitable for transport. The two-step route via syngas provides operational flexibility compared to direct methanol-to-DME synthesis.

Thermochemical energy storage (TCES)

The combination of Steps 2 and 3 creates a thermochemical energy storage system.

Methanol decomposition (Step 2) acts as the charging phase, while syngas-to-fuel conversion (Step 3) acts as discharge, releasing heat and power that can serve industrial consumers alongside fuel production.
This TCES approach enables continuous fuel production even when renewable energy supply is intermittent.

Tackling core barriers

Challenges

Behind the promise of METHCESFUEL lies a set of complex, real-world constraints. Overcoming these challenges will determine its path from concept to scalable solution.

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Closing the efficiency gap

Every conversion step loses energy, and METHCESFUEL chains three together. Simulations project attractive round-trip efficiencies, but experimental data from comparable systems falls short. The project must demonstrate that careful heat integration can keep real-world losses competitive with simpler, single-step alternatives.
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Catalyst and reactor durability

Industrial catalysts are designed for steady-state operation. METHCESFUEL demands components that handle daily start-stop cycling and temperature swings from intermittent renewables. Nickel catalysts risk sintering, copper-based catalysts are sensitive to thermal stress, and membrane reactors must be scaled from low-temperature lab conditions to 170–350°C process temperatures.
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Economic competitiveness

A three-step chain is inherently more complex than a direct route. The economic case rests on whether TCES flexibility and multi-product optionality justify the extra steps , depending on green hydrogen costs, carbon prices and market demand for products like DME.
Tackling core barriers

TRL roadmap

2019-2026
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2019-2026

Phase 1

TRL 2 → TRL 4. 1 kWth prototype integrating all three steps.
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Phase 2

100 kWth demonstrator to reach TRL 7.
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Phase 3

Scale to commercial level.
Impact that matters

Expected impact

By bridging innovation and application, METHCESFUEL is positioned to create lasting impact across science, industry, society, and the environment.

Scientific

Demonstration of an integrated three-step fuel production value chain with TCES. Global advancement of knowledge on methanol-based processes.

Technological / Economic

Cost-competitive high-yield synthetic renewable fuels. New partnerships, products and services. Triggering of new investments. Contribution to energy security.

Societal

Evidence-based policymaking through communication activities. Support of legislative decision-making. Workforce skills development through training programmes.

Environmental

Green fuels with GHG emissions below 30% of fossil equivalents. CO₂ capture and utilisation integration. Closed-loop carbon-neutral fuel system.