As California shifts towards renewable fuels, Stanford researchers are investigating liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) as a promising technology for storing renewable energy and reducing reliance on natural gas. The state currently heavily depends on natural gas to balance out the fluctuations in solar and wind power. By exploring the use of isopropanol and acetone in hydrogen energy storage and release systems, the team aims to develop efficient methods for storing and utilizing electrical energy in liquid fuels. The study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, showcases a novel catalytic system that enables the production of the LOHC isopropanol without generating hydrogen gas, thanks to the combined use of iridium and cobaltocene. This breakthrough could revolutionize energy storage, potentially allowing LOHCs to serve as 'liquid batteries,' storing and releasing energy as required. The research not only offers a sustainable solution for energy storage but also highlights the importance of catalytic systems in advancing renewable energy technologies.