ABSTRACT
The production of hydrogen is the logical step for storage of solar energy. Fundamentally, only water of some acidity or alkalinity is necessary for electrolytic decomposition such that oxygen gas is emitted at the anode and hydrogen gas at the cathode. Photoelectrolysis has been developed as a discipline since the beginning of semiconductor technology. The principle of light activating a semiconductor barrier exposed to an electrolyte, initiates a "redox-potential". In principle it can surpass photosynthesis in efficiency. The use of desert areas for solar plants is a logical proposition especially for solar-tracking modules with concentration and cogeneration. As precision pointing is required, solid fundamentals are a necessity for such structures. Gas transport by way of pipelines may be possible in areas closer to industrial centers. It could be envisioned for photovoltaic plants in North Africa through the Mediterranean but less so for remote ocean areas near the west coast of Africa.
