In response to the growing societal and political demand for eco-friendly technologies, electrolysis has become a key area of scientific focus. This interest is reflected in the extensive research on potential catalysts for hydrogen and oxygen production, as well as for CO₂ reduction. Despite this, only a few of these promising catalysts have transitioned into practical, large-scale applications. Often, process engineering lacks the integration of innovative catalysts, advanced electrodes, and cell configurations with strong market potential. Similarly, catalyst research sometimes overlooks the critical influence of the reaction environment on specific reactions. Both catalyst development and reaction engineering, however, offer rich opportunities to draw inspiration from the complex enzymatic systems found in nature. A comprehensive approach that combines advanced electrode materials within specialized cell architectures is increasingly essential for future progress. In this holistic framework, we present case studies of electrode development featuring novel catalysts and enzymatic systems within application-ready electrolysis cells. These examples highlight advancements in hydrogen production and CO₂ reduction, while also emphasizing the considerable ​challenges that remain on the path to practical implementation. ​