A team of engineers at the University of Illinois Chicago, led by Meenesh Singh, has developed an innovative method to produce hydrogen gas from water using only solar power and agricultural waste, such as manure or husks. This groundbreaking approach significantly reduces the energy requirement for hydrogen production, offering new opportunities for sustainable and climate-friendly chemical manufacturing. By incorporating biochar, a carbon-rich substance derived from common waste products, the team managed to decrease the electricity needed for water splitting by 600%, setting a new efficiency record in the process. The research not only focuses on hydrogen production but also explores the potential for capturing carbon dioxide byproducts for various applications like beverage carbonation or plastic manufacturing. The team's efforts have been sponsored by Orochem Technologies Inc., leading to patent filings for their biochar and hydrogen production processes. This development holds promise for diversifying energy sources, promoting sustainability, and revolutionizing clean energy and chemical production.