Researchers from the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis in Rostock and the company H2APEX have developed a novel formate/bicarbonate energy system for safe and stable hydrogen storage. By binding hydrogen to potassium bicarbonate using a ruthenium catalyst, the system can reversibly store and release hydrogen as formate. This system operates at about 60°C, offering a technically controllable method for hydrogen storage and transportation. The formate/bicarbonate system is highlighted for its potential in local renewable energy supply scenarios, where excess green hydrogen produced from wind or solar energy can be stored as formate. The process is CO2-neutral, enabling the production of pure hydrogen suitable for fuel cells. The research achieved 40 consecutive cycles of hydrogen storage and release, with a high purity of 99.5%. H2APEX aims to commercialize a larger demonstrator plant by 2025, utilizing the innovative formate/bicarbonate energy system for hydrogen storage. This development signifies a significant advancement in the quest for efficient and sustainable hydrogen storage solutions, marking a positive step towards a cleaner energy future.