Addressing hydrogen safety challenges

Hydrogen is increasingly seen as an important component of the clean-energy mix for a sustainable energy future. It has been identified as an alternative fuel that, if generated from clean energy or combined with CCUS (Carbon Capture Usage and Storage), could help bring the world towards a low-carbon society. Nevertheless, hydrogen energy development so far has faced several challenges, especially regarding the safety aspect.

The key technical challenge is the development of a safe hydrogen system. Even though hydrogen is considered safer for the environment, its flammability, buoyancy, ability to embrittle metals, and other properties that require engineering control make designing a safe hydrogen system a challenging process. These challenges are not solely faced by facilities handling hydrogen processes but also by suppliers of equipment to be used in a safe hydrogen system. The announcement of many new hydrogen projects worldwide has led to the very rapid development of new equipment, which can present its own issues.

There are also societal challenges. Although hydrogen has been used in industry for many years, the transition to public use triggers various public perceptions of safety. Considered as a relatively new fuel, there are indications from parts of society that hydrogen has negative connotations for safety, despite education efforts. If not treated properly, this may develop into negative perceptions that can be a barrier to large scale uptake of the technology.

Finally, the regulatory aspect presents further challenges. Regulations and standards for the production and use of hydrogen differ from one country to another. These differences may create a non-standardized benchmark in hydrogen safety in different countries, potentially becoming a barrier to uptake, especially commercially.

During an exclusive panel debate titled “Hydrogen Safety Challenges for the Energy Transition“, industry experts from Gexcon, Shell, Engie, and Wales & West Utilities addressed these challenges. The discussion points are summarised as follows:

• Perceptions within the hydrogen industry around safety with comparison to other renewables. 
• The transition from industrial use of hydrogen to public use  of hydrogen.
• The rapid pace of change and development in equipment used for hydrogen system.
• Regulatory hurdles and variations between regions. 

To request a replay, please click on the button below.