Low-carbon methane pyrolysis for flexible energy-water-power-carbon management under variable demands

Decarbonizing energy systems requires solutions that can deliver clean fuels, reliable power and water security while reducing emissions and infrastructure complexity. Current hydrogen pathways remain constrained by freshwater demand, intermittent energy supply and carbon emissions. Here we present an integrated Quad-generation (Quad-gen) methane pyrolysis system innovation that simultaneously produces low-carbon hydrogen, electricity, freshwater and solid carbon materials within a single thermochemically self-sustained solution. By coupling catalytic methane pyrolysis with hydrogen-driven heat recovery and cogeneration, the process operates with minimal external energy input and adapts to variable demand. System analysis confirms feasibility across practical operating conditions while enabling simultaneous multi-utility outputs. Because the platform can prioritize hydrogen, power or freshwater depending on regional needs, it offers a modular pathway for methane-rich regions, water-stressed environments and decentralized industrial or urban energy systems. This integrated energy–water–carbon approach provides a scalable route toward resilient, low-carbon infrastructure.