In this paper an innovative electrochemical cell equipped with a composite photoanode consisting of an array of highly ordered TiO2 nanotubes on porous nickel is described. The use of a combined anode makes the system suitable for working both in dark and under solar light exposure. Moreover, the use of a LED lamp as a light source allows to avoid side effects due to the heating of the system, thus giving a more reliable estimation of the produced current. Finally, the photo-electrolyser, due to its innovative design and the optimal management of the gas produced, could reduce of at least 3.5 % its energy consumption.