Oxhyd, developed by Juande Sirvent, Marc Torrell and Albert Tarancón from the Nanoionics and Fuel Cells Department at IREC, has been awarded the Premi EmErgEnt in the “llavor” category.  These awards, promoted by the Clúster de l’Energia Eficient de Catalunya (CEEC), recognize emerging talent and innovative projects in the field of energy efficiency and energy transition in Catalonia.

The Premis EmErgEnt ceremony was held yesterday, June 19, at the Teatre Nacional de Catalunya within the framework of the 12a Nit de l’Eficiència, the reference event of the energy sector, which this year brought together more than 600 professionals, companies, public institutions and research centres involved in the energy transition and decarbonization. The award was presented by Jordi Hereu, Minister of Industry and Tourism; Íngrid Boqué, Director of Institutional Relations at the Port de Barcelona; and Ramon Gallart and Marta Fonrodona, members of the Board of the CEEC.

Oxhyd proposes a new generation of solid oxide fuel cells, designed to facilitate the deployment of a green hydrogen-based society. The project, led by Juande Sirvent, utilises additive manufacturing technologies to develop ultracompact fuel cells that offer significantly higher efficiency and power density compared to conventional technologies. With applications in heavy transport (maritime transport and aviation) and stationary systems used in high-emission industries, Oxhyd represents a step forward in the decarbonization of the most polluting sectors.  

Congratulations Juande, Marc and Albert for this award.

We also highlight the Gridwatch project, led by José Luis Domínguez from the Power Systems Department, which was selected as one of the three finalists in the same category. This recognition, together with the Premi EmErgEnt given to Oxhyd, reaffirms the institute’s commitment to high-quality, impact-driven research for a more sustainable future.