Professor Dr. Nazim Muradov, a highly ranked scientist and Head of the Hydrogen Production Technologies Research Group at the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC), holder of more than 40 international patents, has given an EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW to RENEWABLES.AZ.
Professor Muradov is a leading researcher in hydrogen energy, alternative fuels, and renewable energy technologies. His work primarily focuses on the transition to a low-carbon future, development of hydrogen production and storage technologies, and improving energy efficiency. He has participated in scientific programs of the U.S. Department of Energy, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and other prestigious institutions. Author of over 200 scientific articles, monographs, and several specialized books.
In the interview, he discussed research at the Florida Solar Energy Center, innovations in hydrogen and solar energy, his inventions and patents, as well as Azerbaijan’s green energy transition.
- Our readers would like to get to know you better. Could you share the story of your journey to the Florida Solar Energy Center— how did it all come about?
My journey to the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) began during a turbulent chapter in global energy history. The world was still reeling from the devastating energy crisis, and scientists and engineers were racing to find sustainable answers to urgent energy and environmental challenges. During this pivotal time, the vision of hydrogen as a universal, environmentally clean fuel began to take shape. The idea was as elegant as it was revolutionary: every nation could produce hydrogen fuel domestically from local resources, such as water, solar, and wind, thereby reducing dependence on oil and gas imports from unstable regions.
Azerbaijan was among the first Soviet republics to launch a comprehensive hydrogen energy research program in the late 1970s.
The Scientific Council on Hydrogen Energy was established, which coordinated research on many aspects of hydrogen production, storage, and utilization within the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) and other institutions. Azerbaijani scientists actively published their research findings in international journals and took part in scientific meetings. At that time, in the absence of email communication, scientists often exchanged postcard inquiries requesting hard copies of each other’s papers. One such postcard inquiry came from the FSEC, where they had just begun work on solar photocatalytic hydrogen production systems, having noticed my earlier publications on the topic. In 1990, I received an invitation to join FSEC’s newly formed hydrogen laboratory.
- What are the main activities of the FSEC? Could you give us more information about your field of expertise and scientific research?
The FSEC is the largest state-supported clean energy research institution in the United States. It was created by the Florida Legislature in 1975 to advance research, development, and education in the solar energy field. FSEC’s extensive research capabilities, its nationally and internationally recognized programs cover a wide range of areas, including: solar technologies (photovoltaic and thermal), hydrogen and fuel cells, high-performance buildings, electric vehicles, energy storage systems, education and training, and solar equipment certification. Research at FSEC is conducted through controlled experiments in highly instrumented laboratories, field monitoring, and computer simulations. For over 25 years, I have led a research group focused on the development of a broad range of hydrogen production technologies with a particular emphasis on solar-powered and carbon-neutral systems. We explored a wide spectrum of technological approaches, including thermal, catalytic, photochemical, electrochemical, and plasmochemical processes.
- We’d love to hear about the innovations at the forefront of your work. Among your inventions, which do you feel has had—or could have—the greatest societal impact, and what makes it so significant?"
Although I have contributed to multiple innovations, it is not always possible to predict which will ultimately have the greatest impact. Nevertheless, I would like to highlight two that I believe may warrant particular attention. In the early 1990s, I published a paper advocating CO₂-free hydrogen production through catalytic pyrolysis of natural gas (NG) as an alternative to the conventional steam methane reforming process combined with CO₂ capture and storage (note that today, hydrogen produced via NG pyrolysis is commonly referred to as “turquoise” hydrogen). In 2001, I patented this technology and several of its variations. In 2025, the European Commission on Energy, Climate Change, and Environment released its report: “Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) specifying a methodology for assessing greenhouse gas emissions savings from low-carbon fuels”. This EU regulation formally recognized methane pyrolysis as a “low-carbon” technology, paving the way for its practical implementation.
Another notable innovation was the discovery of a novel chemochromic hydrogen sensor, jointly developed and patented by an FSEC–NASA research team, of which I was a member. This sensor was first successfully tested during NASA’s Space Shuttle Endeavour mission. In recognition of this achievement, our team was nominated for NASA’s Blue Marble Award and received the internationally acclaimed R&D 100 Award. The technology was later licensed to an American–Japanese company, which subsequently manufactured it as a commercial product.
- How does Florida’s climate (sun, humidity, hurricanes) affect solar panel performance and maintenance?
Florida’s abundant sunshine makes it one of the most promising locations for widespread solar energy adoption (no wonder Florida is nicknamed the “Sunshine State”). However, the state’s climate presents both opportunities and challenges. Its high annual solar irradiance boosts panel output and shortens the payback period for investments in solar energy. On the other hand, its high humidity can contribute to corrosion of electrical components over time, especially if panels are not manufactured or installed with proper sealing and weatherproofing. Heat also slightly reduces panel efficiency—most panels lose about 0,3–0,5% efficiency for every degree Celsius above 25°C. While Florida’s heat isn’t enough to negate its sunshine advantage, it does mean panels may produce slightly less electricity on the hottest days.
The high solar potential is tempered by the annual hurricane season—from June 1 to November 30—when strong winds and tropical storms can damage panels or lead to costly repairs. While modern solar panels are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, the risk of storm-related damage remains a concern for homeowners and businesses alike. Another consideration is cost.
The average price to install a solar energy system in Florida is about $20,000 after state incentives, with a typical payback period of roughly eight years.
In my neighborhood, many houses adopted solar panels, reflecting growing interest in renewable energy.
- What are the biggest research gaps or unanswered questions in solar today?
At present, the mainstream solar cell technology is dominated by crystalline silicon—particularly screen-printed aluminum back surface field (Al-BSF) cells—with commercial solar panels typically achieving practical efficiencies of 15 –20%.
In my opinion, the greatest challenges facing solar energy systems are increasing their practical solar-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency, reducing costs, and improving the resilience and effectiveness of solar-powered electrical grids.
By comparison, the theoretical maximum efficiency for single-junction silicon-based solar cells is 33.7%. Thus, there remains significant potential for improvement by optimizing material properties, refining manufacturing processes, and integrating multi-layered cells with different band gaps. Current trends indicate a shift toward Passivated Emitter Rear Cell (PERC) technology and next-generation designs such as n-type heterojunction (HJT) and interdigitated back-contact (IBC) cells, which can achieve efficiencies of up to 23.6%. These advancements may help meet the strong global demand for higher-efficiency solar modules. Other notable research needs in the solar industry include expanding off-grid electrification systems, developing smarter inverter technologies, and reducing balance-of-system costs.
- What are the major challenges in storing and transporting green hydrogen globally?
Storing and transporting green hydrogen presents several major challenges, stemming from its low volumetric energy density, the need for specialized infrastructure, and its high cost. The following factors influence both the technical feasibility and economic viability of integrating green hydrogen into the energy system.
1) Energy density. Compared to fossil fuels, gaseous hydrogen contains far less energy per unit volume. Storing a useful amount of energy, therefore, requires large volumes or high-pressure compression, both of which demand specialized, bulky, and often expensive storage and transport solutions for stationary and mobile applications.
2) Infrastructure. Most existing energy infrastructure is not designed to handle hydrogen, especially at large scales. Pipelines, storage facilities, and refueling stations require significant adaptation or complete redesign. Building such infrastructure represents a substantial investment of capital and time.
3) Safety concerns. Hydrogen is highly flammable and can pose safety risks if not stored and handled correctly. High-pressure storage and transport increase the risk of leaks and explosions. Specialized materials, leak detection systems, and strict safety protocols are essential to mitigate these risks.
4) Policy and regulatory gaps. The absence of clear policy and regulatory frameworks for green hydrogen can slow its development. Government incentives, funding programs, and standardization are critical to stimulate investment, innovation, and large-scale deployment. Addressing all these challenges through technological innovation, infrastructure development, and supportive policies will be crucial to unlocking the potential of green hydrogen as a clean, scalable, and sustainable energy carrier.
- How will digital technologies (e g., AI) support the hydrogen economy?
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a vital enabler of the hydrogen economy, optimizing key aspects of hydrogen production, storage, distribution, and utilization. AI-powered systems improve efficiency, reduce costs, enhance safety, and accelerate the integration of green hydrogen into the broader energy landscape. Key areas where AI is creating new opportunities in the hydrogen sector include:
1) Materials discovery. AI algorithms analyze vast datasets to identify optimal catalysts for hydrogen production, particularly in fuel reforming and water electrolysis.
2) Process optimization. AI fine-tunes operational parameters in hydrogen production (e.g., electrolyzer settings, steam methane reforming) to maximize efficiency and minimize energy consumption.
3) Renewables integration. AI manages the coupling of renewable energy sources (solar, wind) with electrolyzers, ensuring stable energy input and preventing operational disruptions.
4) Storage and distribution. AI predicts hydrogen demand fluctuations and optimizes storage and delivery strategies to maintain a reliable supply.
5) Smart grid integration. AI enables seamless integration of hydrogen systems into smart grids, balancing supply and demand and optimizing energy flows.
Summarizing, AI is paving the way for hydrogen’s large-scale adoption in the global energy transition.
- What are the most active areas of research in the global hydrogen ecosystem right now?
Major global research efforts in the hydrogen ecosystem are advancing a broad range of technologies to support a cleaner energy future. Key areas of R&D activity within the global hydrogen ecosystem include:
1) Advanced green hydrogen production. Improving the efficiency and reducing the cost of electrolyzers for large-scale renewable hydrogen generation. In R&D stage, novel pathways like photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, thermochemical cycles, and biological hydrogen production are being developed, aiming to increase solar-to-hydrogen energy conversion efficiency.
2) Hydrogen storage and distribution. Developing safer and more efficient methods for storing hydrogen at high pressures or low temperatures, enhancing compression and liquefaction techniques, and building effective distribution networks.
3) Hydrogen mobility and fuel cells. Designing more efficient, durable, and cost-effective fuel cells for applications in transportation (cars, buses, trucks, ships, aircraft) and industrial sectors.
4) Industrial applications. Integrating hydrogen into heavy industries such as steel, chemicals, refining, and cement production to significantly cut carbon emissions.
5) Geological hydrogen. Investigating naturally occurring underground hydrogen deposits and developing viable extraction methods.
6) Hydrogen Derivatives. Converting renewable hydrogen into value-added chemicals and fuels such as ammonia, methanol, and synthetic hydrocarbons for energy transport and storage.
7) Hydrogen safety. Addressing safety challenges through advanced leak detection systems, rigorous safety protocols, and robust infrastructure designs.
- How do you see the role of hydrogen in achieving global climate goals?
Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier with the potential to play a significant role in achieving global climate goals. It addresses carbon emissions and offers pathways to decarbonize sectors that are difficult to electrify. In particular, hydrogen and/or its derivatives can be used as a fuel in transportation, industry, and also as a storage medium for renewable energy without emitting greenhouse gases. Hydrogen can be used to balance the electricity grid by providing backup power when renewable sources are unavailable, enabling greater integration of variable renewables like solar and wind.
It should be noted, however, that while hydrogen itself does not produce greenhouse gas emissions at the point of use, its climate benefits depend heavily on how it is produced and managed. For example, methane leakage during the production of “blue” hydrogen (from natural gas with carbon capture and storage) can offset some of its emissions reductions. Even green hydrogen, produced via renewable-powered electrolysis, can have associated emissions from equipment manufacturing, transportation, and other lifecycle stages. Minimizing these emissions, along with preventing hydrogen leaks, is essential to realizing hydrogen’s full climate potential.
- During the COP29, the Azerbaijan National Hydrogen Strategic Outlook document has been released. In what way, this document help in advancing hydrogen economy development in Azerbaijan?
A National Hydrogen Strategic Outlook could significantly shape Azerbaijan’s role in the hydrogen economy, both regionally and globally. In particular, here are some key ways it could affect Azerbaijan’s position:
1) Clear policy direction. Establishing an official national hydrogen strategy signals a long-term commitment to clean energy and provides clarity for investors, industry, and international partners.
2) Investment attraction. A well-defined roadmap can attract foreign direct investment and technology partnerships, reducing perceived risks for companies exploring hydrogen projects in Azerbaijan.
3) International partnerships. The strategy could serve as a platform for cooperation with the EU, the Middle East, and Central Asia on trade and technology exchange.
4) Economic diversification. It can stimulate domestic industries (transport, heavy industry, power generation), helping diversify the economy away from oil and gas dependence.
In short, a strong National Hydrogen Strategic Outlook would enable Azerbaijan to transform its traditional role as a hydrocarbon exporter into that of a clean energy leader, bridging its fossil fuel heritage with a low-carbon future.
- You have worked internationally — how do U.S. approaches to hydrogen R&D compare with those in Europe or Asia?
Currently, leading nations in hydrogen R&D include the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, China, South Korea, and Australia. While these countries (along with many others) share the goal of positioning hydrogen as a key driver of the global energy transition, their visions, strategies and policy approaches differ significantly.
United States vs. European Union. The U.S. approach is largely supply-side focused, emphasizing the development of regional clean hydrogen hubs and supporting production through subsidies and tax incentives. The strategy is relatively technology-neutral, allowing for multiple production pathways, including those powered by clean (carbon-free) electricity. It should be noted that under the current U.S. administration, federal priorities have markedly shifted, with some skepticism toward climate change and clean energy initiatives influencing funding and policy decisions. While hydrogen has not been completely abandoned, emphasis has clearly moved toward supporting fossil fuel–based projects, affecting momentum for certain clean hydrogen programs. In contrast, the EU emphasizes demand-side mechanisms, prioritizing hydrogen use across multiple sectors—especially in hard-to-decarbonize industries like steel, chemicals, and heavy transport—while building a robust market through prescriptive regulations, standards, and targeted incentives.
United States vs. Asia. The U.S. strategy supports both green and blue hydrogen production, leveraging tax credits to stimulate growth. Many Asian countries, however, are heavily investing in green hydrogen, targeting specific applications such as transportation and hard-to-electrify industries, often with strong government-backed infrastructure programs. International collaboration is playing a vital role in advancing hydrogen technologies and addressing shared challenges across all regions.
- You've been awarded over 40 U.S. patents, and some of your patents and innovations have been commercialized. What advice would you give young researchers aiming to translate their scientific discoveries into patented technology and startups?
Translating academic research and scientific discoveries into patented technologies and successful startups requires more than technical excellence—it demands strategic thinking, persistence, and an entrepreneurial mindset. The journey from an innovative idea to a viable business typically involves several key stages:
1) conducting thorough market research to understand the target market, potential customers, and competitive landscape;
2) determining who your ideal customers are, their needs, and how your product will meet those needs;
3) creating a comprehensive business plan outlining your company's mission, vision, objectives, strategies, and financial projections;
4) building a prototype or a minimum viable product (MVP) to test your core offering with early adopters;
5) protecting your intellectual property (patents, trademarks) to protect your research-based innovations.
Finally, researchers need to learn the language of business and entrepreneurship to effectively commercialize their research.
- What skills or mindsets should young scientists cultivate to succeed in energy research?
The clean energy sector is a dynamic and evolving field that requires a diverse set of skills to excel in research. To thrive in clean energy research over the next two decades, young scientists would need to cultivate a combination of technical and soft skills, along with a focus on emerging areas like data science and artificial intelligence (AI).
Among crucial skills to develop for young scientists, several are worth mentioning:
- deep technical expertise in renewable energy technologies;
- strong analytical and problem-solving abilities;
- proficiency in data science and artificial intelligence;
- teamwork, communication, and cross-disciplinary collaboration skills to work effectively in diverse project environments;
- understanding of policy, economics, and environmental stewardship.
Of special importance is the development of transferable skills that can be used in the renewable energy sector. Transferable skills are abilities you’ve developed in one setting that can be applied to another. They can be gained from previous jobs, volunteer work, or even hobbies. These skills are crucial when transitioning to a new industry like renewable energy, allowing you to leverage your existing expertise and adapt to new roles more easily. The renewable energy sector is experiencing rapid growth worldwide, driven by increasing awareness of climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions. This presents a wealth of opportunities for individuals with a diverse range of skills, making it an attractive field for career transition.
- In closing, how do you evaluate Azerbaijan's green energy transition and what are your final thoughts on Azerbaijan's green energy future?
I consider Azerbaijan’s transition to green energy to be truly impressive: it is a farsighted and timely strategy aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels and fostering renewable energy development through supportive policies and legislation. Benefiting from a favorable geographical location and climate, the country has substantial potential in practically all forms of renewable energy, including solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy. At present, the primary focus is on solar and wind (onshore and offshore) power, with foreign investors playing a key role in project implementation. Notable developments include the inauguration of Azerbaijan’s first utility-scale solar facility in Garadagh in October 2023, with a capacity of 230 MW.
Beyond domestic production, Azerbaijan is actively working to establish a green energy corridor linking the Caspian Sea region to Europe. These efforts support the national target of generating an impressive 30 percent of total installed electricity capacity from renewables by 2030. The shift toward renewable energy is poised to stimulate investment, drive innovation, and generate socioeconomic benefits. However, certain challenges remain in fully unlocking Azerbaijan’s renewable potential and ensuring a smooth transition from a fossil fuel–based economy.
I believe Azerbaijan’s green energy transition represents both a necessity and a unique opportunity – it is not just an environmental imperative, but an opportunity to build a more resilient, diversified, and sustainable future.
While the challenges of the transitioning process are significant, the opportunities are even greater: with a clear vision, technological innovation, policy framework, investment roadmap, and international cooperation, Azerbaijan can position itself as a leader in the regional clean energy landscape. The steps that are taken today toward green energy will ensure a healthier environment, a stronger economy, and a brighter future for the people of Azerbaijan for generations to come.
Dear Dr. Nazim, thank you for taking the time for the interview, and we wish you continued success in your work!
