Liquid Fuel Synthesis from CO2 Catalytic Hydrogenation Powered by Renewable Energy: A Review

Abstract The renewable energy-powered technology of CO2 catalytic hydrogenation to liquid fuels has become one of the key pathways to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality, as it possesses the dual value of carbon emission reduction and renewable fuel production. While existing literature frequently discusses isolated catalytic mechanisms, this review distinguishes itself by providing a holistic framework that uniquely bridges microscopic active-site engineering with macroscopic process optimization, renewable energy integration, and techno-economic viability. Specifically, we systematically examine the synthesis of four high-value energy carriers. For methanol and formic acid (as a liquid hydrogen carrier and fuel-cell feedstock), the underlying mechanisms (e.g., formate, reverse water–gas shift (RWGS), trans-COOH) and catalyst systems (homogeneous and heterogeneous) are critically elaborated. For gasoline production, the RWGS coupled with Fischer–Tropsch synthesis is discussed, explicitly justifying the inclusion of the high-temperature FT (HTFT) route to favor lighter C5–C11 fractions over Fe-based, zeolite-composite, and Co-based catalysts. Conversely, for jet fuel synthesis, we focus predominantly on low-temperature FT (LTFT) and methanol-mediated routes to maximize chain growth for C8–C16. Crucially, setting this work apart from conventional reviews, we deeply embed the “Powered by Renewable Energy” theme by evaluating emerging photothermal, electrocatalytic, and dynamic electrified systems designed for grid intermittency. Furthermore, we provide comprehensive environmental-economic assessments alongside process considerations like energy integration and coke management. Finally, we formulate an actionable roadmap encompassing AI-driven catalyst discovery and smart grid-responsive engineering to accelerate commercialization.