Living nature has developed great skill in harvesting abundant solar and environmental energy, which is only available via small energy packages. The main scientific-technical tools for accessing such technologies are provided by physical-chemical and electrochemical strategies. During a fascinating research period with many challenges I could, collaborating with students and colleagues, contribute more than 400 research papers. They aimed at converting and harvesting solar energy and I am proud to have addressed relevant questions. Selected results are summarized from the following research areas:
Fig.: Trees are not only impressive objects. They also harbour sophisticated energy technologies. Water splitting and water pulling with solar energy are examples.