Bertels x PHOTONIA (EIC)
groundbreaking technology
We are proud to announce our involvement in the prestigious PHOTONIA project, funded by the European Innovation Council (EIC) under the Horizon Europe programme. This four-year research initiative, running from November 1, 2025 to October 31, 2029, aims to decarbonise and decentralise nitrogen fertiliser production through cutting-edge solar-driven technology.
What is PHOTONIA?
PHOTONIA stands for Photocatalytic Conversion of Nitrogen to Ammonia for On-Site Fertilizer Production. The project is developing a groundbreaking technology that converts atmospheric nitrogen into ammonium nitrate using solar energy. This innovative approach offers a sustainable alternative to conventional fertiliser production, which is currently responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions.
By leveraging advancements in photochemistry and photocatalysis, PHOTONIA contributes to a circular nitrogen economy and lays the foundation for decentralised fertiliser production. The technology is being tested in horticulture, where PHOTONIA panels can be installed in greenhouses to locally produce fertilisers—directly from sunlight and air.
Funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe grant 101223328 (PHOTONIA). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
What is PHOTONIA?
PHOTONIA stands for Photocatalytic Conversion of Nitrogen to Ammonia for On-Site Fertilizer Production. The project is developing a groundbreaking technology that converts atmospheric nitrogen into ammonium nitrate using solar energy. This innovative approach offers a sustainable alternative to conventional fertiliser production, which is currently responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions.
By leveraging advancements in photochemistry and photocatalysis, PHOTONIA contributes to a circular nitrogen economy and lays the foundation for decentralised fertiliser production. The technology is being tested in horticulture, where PHOTONIA panels can be installed in greenhouses to locally produce fertilisers—directly from sunlight and air.
Our role in the consortium
Together with leading partners from across Europe, we are contributing to the development and application of this transformative technology:
Why this matters
The need for sustainable horticultural solutions is more urgent than ever. By enabling local fertiliser production powered by renewable energy, PHOTONIA contributes to:
For more information about the PHOTONIA project, visit the official project page
