As Chief Technology Officer at HydGene Renewables, Dr Kerstin Petroll is a young STEM graduate at the forefront of developing the startup.
HydGene Renewables’ proprietary hydrogen biocatalyst enables the on-site conversion of diverse feedstocks, including those from agriculture and forestry, into 100% renewable, carbon negative hydrogen, minimising the need for transportation and storage. The technology addresses the issue of agricultural waste residues, which account for a significant portion of emissions and landfill contributions. It value-adds and promotes a circular economy by turning these waste biomass residues into clean chemicals and energy. The green hydrogen product can also be used to reduce emissions in synthetic ammonia fertiliser production, contributing to the diverse mix of solutions needed to combat climate change and make farming practices more sustainable. The HydGene Renewables biocatalyst technology is robust, and able to make hydrogen continuously for many months using waste streams that are typically toxic to other bio-based solutions.
Dr Petroll sees the Catalyst Program as an opportunity for both HydGene Renewables and her own personal career aspirations. She aspires to become a prominent female leader in a STEM-focused business and promote diversity in the workplace and help guide future STEM professionals.