Efforts are underway in Japan to transition towards a carbon-neutral society by 2050, with a focus on utilizing hydrogen as a primary energy source. Various technologies for hydrogen storage, transportation, and reproduction are being actively developed, including high-pressure hydrogen and liquid organic hydrogen carriers like methylcyclohexane. One significant development involves the transportation of hydrogen produced from lignite coal to Japan, where it is used in various applications such as fuel cell vehicles and trains. Despite the potential of high-pressure and liquid hydrogen, challenges exist in their storage and transportation due to the need for specialized equipment and safety risks, which increase costs and hinder widespread adoption. To address these issues, researchers at AIST and the University of Tsukuba have devised a novel method for the direct synthesis of formic acid from carbon dioxide and hydrogen using an iridium catalyst in hexafluoroisopropanol. This innovative approach avoids the multiple steps involved in traditional formic acid production, reducing costs and simplifying the supply of hydrogen. By inhibiting formic acid decomposition and enhancing the formation of key intermediates, the researchers have achieved efficient formic acid production without the need for formate intermediates. This breakthrough not only streamlines the production process but also positions formic acid as a sustainable hydrogen source. The integration of this method with AIST's flow-based power generation system holds promise for advancing carbon-neutral hydrogen storage and production solutions. The research paves the way for a more efficient and cost-effective approach to utilizing formic acid as a key element in achieving a sustainable energy future.