Abstract: This paper introduces the theory，implementation model and application of STEP （solar thermal electrochemical production） which can generate energy molecules. Using solar energy as energy source，the STEP process produces metal，fuel，chlorine，some other energy materials and carbon capture efficiently and orientedly. It provides a new path to convert and store solar energy as chemical energy by synergy and coupling of solar light-heat-electricity utilization efficiency and molecular light-heat-electricity chemical reaction characteristics. The paper points out the breakthrough and application prospect of STEP process in solar chemistry as follows，hydrogen production in molten hydroxides electrolyte，carbon-free iron generation in molten carbonates electrolyte which contains iron compound，chlorine and magnesium generation in molten chlorides electrolyte，carbon capture and carbon-free cement production in molten carbonates electrolyte. STEP process provides an alternative way for realizing the reduction of greenhouse gases emission and comprehensive utilization of carbon dioxide.

Key words: solar energy, carbon dioxide, molten salt electrolysis, energy molecule

摘要： 介绍了太阳能光-热-电化学耦合法（solar thermal electrochemical production，简称STEP）合成含能分子的理论、实现方式及应用。简述了STEP过程以太阳能为能源，协同、耦合调控太阳能光-热-电利用效率和分子 光-热-电化学反应特性，高效、定向地将太阳能向含能分子转化与储存。指出STEP技术太阳能制氢反应中采用熔融氢氧化物为电解质、无碳排放的炼铁反应中采用含铁的熔融碳酸盐为电解质、制氯气和镁以熔融氯化物为电解质、碳捕获和无碳制水泥反应中采用熔融碳酸盐为电解质等化学方面的突破和利用前景。STEP过程为实现温室气体的减排和二氧化碳的综合利用提供了一种可供选择的途径。

关键词: 太阳能, 二氧化碳, 熔盐电解, 含能分子