A groundbreaking hybrid solar distillation-water electrolysis (HSD-WE) device developed by a team led by Cornell University has the potential to revolutionize green hydrogen production. The system not only generates carbon-free hydrogen through solar-powered electrolysis of seawater but also produces potable water as a valuable byproduct. With an energy efficiency of 12.6% under natural sunlight, the prototype shows promise in significantly reducing the cost of green hydrogen production, aiming for $1 per kilogram within 15 years. This advancement addresses two critical global challenges - sustainable energy production and water scarcity. Traditional green hydrogen production methods rely on deionized water, making them costly and unsustainable in water-scarce regions. In contrast, the Cornell-led team's device leverages abundant seawater, eliminating the need for costly purification processes. By directly integrating solar desalination into the hydrogen production process, the device efficiently tackles the challenges posed by seawater's high salt content. One of the key features of the HSD-WE device is its utilization of waste heat generated by sunlight. By capturing and utilizing this waste heat for distilling seawater, the system achieves over 90% evaporation efficiency. The condensed clean water is then used in the electrolysis process to produce hydrogen and oxygen. This innovative design allows for the complete utilization of solar energy, enhancing the overall efficiency of the system. Moreover, the compact size and dual functionality of the device make it a suitable candidate for integration into existing solar farms. By diverting waste heat away from solar panels, the system not only improves its performance but also extends their lifespan. The researchers believe that by mass-producing and scaling up this technology, the cost of green hydrogen production can be significantly reduced, making it a more competitive alternative to conventional hydrogen. The collaborative effort involving researchers from institutions like MIT, Johns Hopkins University, Michigan State University, and Lehigh University, supported by the National Science Foundation, highlights the interdisciplinary approach and potential impact of this innovative technology on achieving global sustainability goals.