Research

It has recently become commonplace for energy infrastructure to be branded or otherwise-described as “hydrogen ready”. This terminology is generally used in the context of equipment and/or systems initially intended for conventional fuel sources (such as natural gas), which can be converted to use hydrogen or hydrogen-natural gas blends. However, there is uncertainty and confusion as to what this term actually means, especially in reference to high-pressure pipeline systems used for transmission and storage of natural gas. This is particularly important from a regulatory perspective, since pipelines are granted a license for a specific fluid by the regulator of the relevant jurisdiction, such that re-application for a new license would be required to transition from natural gas to hydrogen service. While the licensing process is jurisdiction-specific, a consistent framework for assessing a pipeline system as “hydrogen ready” (within a prescribed envelope) would facilitate a more effective regulatory process during this transitional stage. This project will therefore provide a guidance framework to technical regulators to assist in the approval process for licensing pipelines for hydrogen service, including pipelines initially intended for natural gas. This will be achieved via collaboration between industry, researchers and regulators, taking into account the current state of knowledge and existing approval processes.

The overall aim of this project is to improve the efficiency of the regulatory approval process for hydrogen pipelines. This will improve both the safety and economic competitiveness of hydrogen pipelines, by providing a consistent set of definitions and approval criteria that is supported by the latest research and industry experience.

The project also intends to lead to improved cooperation between both industry and regulators, and between different jurisdictions within Australia.

The following specific outcomes are intended:

• Use of consistent terminology and definitions with regards to “hydrogen ready” components and system designs across the pipeline sector.
• Use of a guidance document/framework to improve the consistency of the approval process for pipelines intended to be licensed for hydrogen across Australia.
• Project planners/designers to refer to this guidance when providing documentation to regulators for hydrogen (and hydrogen ready) pipelines.

Douglas Proud

Research & Utilisation Program Coordinator

douglas.proud@futurefuelscrc.com