RSB's Guide to the Potential of PtX: Unlocking energy transformation
As industries look to double-down on their efforts to achieve net-zero and their sustainability goals, new and innovative technologies are being explored to help significantly accelerate this transition. One approach is Power-to-X (PtX) technology, which asks the simple question: What if we could develop a technology that can transform and use energy like photosynthesis?
PtX refers to innovative conversion technologies that turn renewable electricity into various synthetic and low-carbon fuels, which can be used to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors, or stored for later use.
It involves a three-stage process: Power Generation; Conversion; and Application.
In the first stage, renewable energy is generated from wind, solar, hydro and biomass. In the second stage, electrolysis converts water into hydrogen, which is either used on its own, or combined with carbon from biogenic or nonbiogenic sources, or nitrogen from air separation to create high-energy molecules. And finally, in the third stage, Renewable hydrogen can be used directly as a fuel to produce electricity or heat, or as a chemical feedstock. Hydrogen combined with carbon or nitrogen and converted catalytically produces a wide range of fuels, chemical feedstocks, fertilisers, etc.
However, measures must be taken to ensure that PtX is truly sustainable – that all risks are accounted for and key requirements are followed to fit with a stringent sustainability framework, like that of the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB).
RSB is a supporting partner of Sustainable Aviation Futures, and is pleased to introduce a set of resources to help you understand and apply PtX solutions in the transition to a sustainable bioeconomy:
Video: A short, accessible introduction to how PtX technologies work and why they are vital for sustainable fuel and material production.
Factsheet: A clear overview of the key opportunities and challenges associated with PtX — including its role in scaling renewable energy use, enabling sector coupling, and supporting emissions reduction in sectors with few alternatives.
Handbook: A comprehensive guide detailing how PtX technologies integrate into global decarbonisation strategies, the sustainability risks to be managed, and the critical role certification plays in ensuring a responsible transition.
If you’d like to learn more about this promising potential of PtX technology, you can also contact RSB's Business Development & Innovations Manager, Carolina Grassi.