Advancing Green Hydrogen Technology with AEMWE Electrolysis
The Sirius Project, led by Hyter (Pietro Fiorentini Group), has been selected among the winners of the Italian Ministry of Ecological Transition (MiTE) grant for hydrogen research and development. Developed in collaboration with INRETE Distribuzione Energia (Hera Group), MatRes (MBN Nanomaterialia Group), and the University of Padua, the project aims to revolutionize hydrogen production through AEMWE (Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis) technology.
A Groundbreaking Hydrogen Project
The Sirius Project will lead to the development of the world’s first electrolyzer exceeding 1 MW based on AEMWE technology. This innovative electrolyzer will be installed near a Hera Group facility, contributing to the advancement of hydrogen infrastructure and industrial decarbonization.
Recognized Excellence in Hydrogen Research
With a score of 86.73/100, Sirius ranked third in the category “Mission 2 – Component 2 – Investment 3.5 – Hydrogen Research and Development”, among 56 proposals submitted for funding under the European Union’s PNRR (National Economic Recovery and Resilience Plan).
The project has secured over €2 million in funding (€2,128,891.25), covering approximately 50% of the total budget allocated by the project’s partners.
Key Players and Their Roles in the Sirius Project
- Hyter (Pietro Fiorentini Group) – Responsible for designing, engineering, and manufacturing the electrolyzer’s modular stacks.
- University of Padua – Department of Chemical Sciences – Conducting research on advanced catalyst materials to enhance electrolyzer efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
- MatRes (MBN Nanomaterialia Group) – Developing new porous screen materials to optimize hydrogen recombination and facilitate scalable manufacturing.
- INRETE Distribuzione Energia (Hera Group) – Constructing an experimental industrial site for hydrogen utilization, integrating the electrolyzer into real-world energy applications.
Green Hydrogen: A Key to Energy Transition
According to Emanuele Castioni, CEO of Hyter, the Sirius Project represents a major step forward in the production of green hydrogen, which is produced without fossil fuels. He emphasized:
“AEMWE technology is a core solution within the Pietro Fiorentini Group’s renewable energy portfolio. Hydrogen is increasingly crucial for industrialized nations seeking energy independence while meeting EU decarbonization goals.”
Federico Bronzini, CEO of INRETE Distribuzione Energia, highlighted the project’s alignment with Hera Group’s energy transition strategy, stating:
“Our Industrial Plan 2025 integrates various hydrogen-related initiatives, including sector coupling, blending, and public hydrogen applications. Supporting Sirius allows us to contribute to a sustainable chemical energy distribution network.”
Alberto Colella, CEO of MatRes, stressed the importance of rethinking material design to support scalable green hydrogen production:
“We focus on developing low-cost, sustainable catalyst materials that ensure efficient hydrogen recombination while minimizing environmental impact.”
A Future Powered by Hydrogen
Prof. Stefano Agnoli (INCAT Research Group, University of Padua) underscored the scientific innovation driving Sirius:
“Our research will develop advanced catalyst materials based on abundant, non-toxic elements, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective electrolyzer production.”
Why the Sirius Project Matters for the Hydrogen Economy
- First-of-its-kind AEMWE electrolyzer exceeding 1 MW
- Funded by MiTE under the EU’s NextGenerationEU initiative
- Supports Italy’s hydrogen infrastructure development
- Reduces dependence on fossil fuels and accelerates decarbonization
Learn More
Visit the official MiTE rankings for details on the grant selection process.
Project financed under PNRR, co-funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU.
About the Project Partners
Hyter (Pietro Fiorentini Group)
Hyter specializes in hydrogen generation through AEMWE technology, offering a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional alkaline and PEM electrolyzers. Based in Desenzano del Garda, Italy, Hyter was originally founded as SPI Consulting in 2011 and became part of Pietro Fiorentini Group in 2021.
Gruppo Hera & INRETE Distribuzione Energia
Gruppo Hera is one of Italy’s leading multi-utility companies, operating in the energy, water, and environmental sectors. INRETE Distribuzione Energia, a Hera Group subsidiary, specializes in gas and electricity distribution.
🔗 www.gruppohera.it
🔗 www.inretedistribuzione.it
MatRes (MBN Nanomaterialia Group)
MatRes is an Italian industrial research and development company, focusing on advanced metal and ceramic composite materials for hydrogen and energy applications.
University of Padua – Department of Chemical Sciences
Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is one of Europe’s top-ranked research institutions, contributing to scientific breakthroughs in energy, chemistry, and engineering.
