Visible light-response NaTa1−xCuxO3 photocatalysts for hydrogen production from methanol aqueous solution

► The NaTa1−xCuxO3 photocatalysts were synthesized by solid state reaction. ► Cu(II) doping brings more obvious characteristic step on the surface. ► Cu(II) doping extends the optical response towards visible light. ► The NaTa1−xCuxO3 exhibits enhanced visible photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution.