As the world shifts towards a cleaner energy future, hydrogen is emerging as a game-changer for the decarbonization of heavy industry with economic and energy security benefits. Jensen Hughes is at the forefront of this revolution, helping stakeholders bring their hydrogen projects to life without jeopardizing safety or security. But we also know that hydrogen poses unique challenges, and we're dedicated to addressing them head-on to avoid start-up and operation pitfalls.
The Wave of Hydrogen Development
Hydrogen has the potential to transform the way we power our world. With its abundant local supply, high energy density, zero greenhouse gas emissions and flexibility in application for a wide range of processes, it's no wonder that hydrogen is gaining traction across numerous industries and becoming a strategic energy investment for many nations. From fuel cell electric vehicles to industrial processes and power generation, the possibilities are vast and ready for near-term application.
The Hazards of Hydrogen
But let's not forget: hydrogen requires careful handling. It is colorless, odorless and highly flammable over a wide range of concentrations, so any leaks, fires and explosions can have devastating consequences. Hydrogen is also the lightest gas, resulting in rapid dispersion to elevated locations that may be difficult to detect. Given the inherent risks associated with the production, storage, transportation and utilization of hydrogen, a risk-informed, performance-based approach is crucial to ensuring safety without stifling innovation.
Clearing the Path to Project Approval
So, what do stakeholders need to do to get their projects permitted and approved by local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)? Here are some key takeaways.
- Collaborate with regulators. Engage early and often to ensure that your project meets relevant National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes and any local regulations specific to hydrogen. As this may be a new technology for many AHJs, foster open communication to jointly understand the hazards, mitigations and regulatory framework.
- Conduct thorough risk assessments. Identify and evaluate potential hazards in a Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) and develop strategies to prevent or mitigate them in a comprehensive Safety Management Plan (SMP).
- Implement safety protocols. Develop and train on emergency response plans and ensure that all personnel are equipped to handle hydrogen safely.
- Invest in robust design and construction. Ensure that facilities are designed and built with safety in mind, using materials and components that can withstand hydrogen’s unique challenges (e.g., high-pressure or liquified hydrogen can embrittle and significantly weaken structural steel). Also, install systems to rapidly detect and mitigate leaks and inventory loss.
By taking a proactive, risk-informed approach, we can responsibly and sustainably harness the power of hydrogen, building trust in the technology while keeping people and communities safe.
Navigating the Hydrogen Energy Landscape
Our team of experts has extensive experience in hydrogen project development and design, permitting and safe operation. We're dedicated to helping stakeholders navigate the complex landscape of hydrogen energy, having relationships with AHJs, regulators and Standard Development Organizations (SDOs) throughout the world. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your project.
