A team comprising members from TU Berlin, HZB, IMTEK (University of Freiburg), and Siemens Energy has achieved a groundbreaking advancement in hydrogen production with the development of an efficient alkaline membrane electrolyzer. This innovative electrolyzer, utilizing inexpensive nickel compounds instead of the costly and rare iridium for the anode catalyst, has demonstrated high efficiency comparable to established PEM electrolyzers. The use of nickel double hydroxide compounds with iron, cobalt, or manganese, coated directly onto an alkaline ion exchange membrane, marks a significant milestone in the quest for cost-effective and sustainable hydrogen production. Through operando measurements conducted at BESSY II, the team gained crucial insights into the catalytic processes occurring during electrolysis. The discovery of a competitive gamma phase catalyst, closely resembling the performance of iridium, represents a major step forward in the field. Prof. Peter Strasser from TU Berlin highlighted the importance of understanding the catalytic mechanisms behind the new nickel-based electrode materials, shedding light on both similarities and differences compared to iridium. The study's outcomes, detailed in the prestigious journal Nature Catalysis, not only enhance our understanding of fundamental catalysis mechanisms but also offer a promising pathway towards industrial implementation. The scalability of the newly developed coating method for membrane electrodes has already been demonstrated in a laboratory setting, showcasing the potential for efficient large-scale hydrogen production. Overall, this breakthrough in alkaline membrane electrolyzers sets the stage for a more sustainable and cost-effective hydrogen economy, driven by innovative technology and research.